Crotone - The special unit of the Carabinieri for Food Safety (NAS) from Cosenza has uncovered a serious case of illegal slaughter and animal cruelty. As part of a major investigation led by the public prosecutor's office in Crotone, the officers inspected a slaughterhouse in the region. The judicial administrator of the already insolvent business was arrested. Five other people, including the owner and operator of the plant, were released.
Danger to public health
During the inspection, the investigators discovered that the seals on the plant had been broken. Inside the plant, they discovered 13 recently slaughtered horses. None of these animals were on the national registry or had the necessary health documents that would allow them to be slaughtered for food production.
Particularly alarming: ten of the animals bore no identification marks whatsoever. Although three other horses could be identified via a microchip, they were classified as „NON DPA“ - i.e. „not intended for food production“. It is assumed that these were sport or hobby horses.
As a result of this practice, meat from animals that may have been given drugs that are dangerous for human consumption during their lifetime entered circulation. In addition to breaking the seals, the suspects are also accused of the unjustified killing of animals and trading in uncontrolled, dangerous meat. The Carabinieri were able to prevent over 3,000 kilograms of potentially harmful meat from ending up on consumers' plates.
The entire business, including equipment, vehicles and meat, was confiscated. The value of the seizure is estimated at over three million euros. Veterinarians from the local health service (ASP Crotone) have taken samples to test the meat for pathogens or drug residues. Investigations into the origin of the animals and the distribution channels are ongoing.
