In a major crackdown on suspected food adulteration, Hyderabad Police arrested two individuals accused of allegedly supplying beef while passing it off as mutton to local hotels. The operation was carried out jointly by the Hyderabad Food Adulteration Surveillance Team (H-FAST), the Central Crime Station (CCS), and Habeebnagar Police.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Mohd Osman, the owner of Osman Meat Shop in Mallepally, and Mohd Jahangir Pasha, a worker at Ayan Beef Shop. Police suspect the duo was involved in supplying meat that was allegedly misrepresented as mutton to several food establishments in the city.
During the raid, officials seized approximately 50 kilograms of meat believed to be connected to the alleged racket. Authorities stated that the seized meat has been taken into custody as part of the investigation. Samples are expected to undergo scientific examination to determine their composition and verify the allegations.
According to investigators, the operation was launched following specific intelligence inputs regarding the alleged supply of incorrectly labelled meat to hotels and eateries. Teams from H-FAST, CCS, and Habeebnagar Police coordinated the search and seizure operation before taking the two suspects into custody.
Police have registered a case at Habeebnagar Police Station, and the accused have been handed over for further investigation. Officials said they are examining the supply chain, identifying the intended buyers, and determining whether similar activities may have been taking place elsewhere in the city.
Authorities are also collecting documentary records, supplier details, and other evidence to establish the extent of the alleged operation. Investigators are expected to question additional individuals if required during the course of the probe.
Officials emphasized that the investigation is still in its preliminary stages. The exact nature of the seized meat and whether it was falsely marketed as mutton will depend on laboratory analysis and other evidence collected during the investigation. Police have urged the public not to draw conclusions until the forensic and scientific examination is completed.
The case has once again highlighted concerns over food adulteration and mislabelling. Food safety experts note that accurate labelling is essential to protect consumer rights, maintain public confidence, and ensure compliance with food safety regulations. Any violation, if proven, can attract strict legal action under the relevant laws.
Police have assured that the investigation will continue and that appropriate legal action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry and laboratory reports. Authorities have also appealed to consumers and hotel operators to purchase food products only from licensed and verified suppliers.