Special police unit probing the meat cartel, says CID director

PETALING JAYA: A total of 13 police reports have been lodged in connection with the meat cartel, which used fake "halal' labels, says Comm Datuk Huzir Mohamed (pic).

The Bukit Aman CID director said the case is being handled by the CID's Special Investigation Unit.

"We are investigating under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code for causing public fear and alarm," he said in a statement on Tuesday (Dec 29).

Initial investigations revealed that the illegal activity involved a wide network along with local and foreign syndicates based on the total seizures and its value, he added.

"Our investigation will include the acquisition, storage, processing, smuggling as well as parties that have been manipulated or in cahoots with the syndicates in bringing the frozen meat through with Approved Permit (AP).

"We are looking at this matter seriously and we are committed to curbing this activity by cooperation with various agencies including the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry and the Customs Department," he said.

Stern action is warranted as the syndicates have caused public distress especially issues involving the sensitivity of Islam, Comm Huzir said.

"The illegal activity has also disrupted public order as well as tarnished the nation's image as a halal hub.

"We are also taking into account the economic impact," he added.

Comm Huzir urged those with information to come forward to assist the investigation instead of spreading unverified news on social media.

"Such actions can cause public distress and threatened the nation's harmony," he added.