(21-05-23) MOGADISHU – The Banadir region’s General Police Department, in a special operation, swooped down on a food store located in the bustling Bakara market of Mogadishu on Sunday. The said store was reportedly involved in the sale of food unfit for human consumption, according to a detailed statement from the police force.
“Today, May 21, 2023, the police of the General Division of Banadir Region, particularly the Hodan District Police Station, raided a store in the Bakara market that was selling expired food to unsuspecting consumers,” read the police statement.
The operation, spearheaded by the Hodan police station, led to the confiscation of a significant amount of expired food commodities from the commercial area within the market. The seized items were being sold unlawfully, posing severe health risks to the public.
“In our pursuit of public safety, we seized numerous items that were not only expired but also potentially hazardous for human health,” stated the officer in charge at Hodan police station. “These seized products underscore our commitment to protect the health and wellbeing of our community.”
In a strong stance against the practice, the Banadir police also revealed that they had apprehended the individuals responsible for selling the unfit food. They announced that legal action would be pursued against these individuals in accordance with Somali law.
“Suspects accused of selling these goods have been arrested. They will be presented before a competent court to face justice,” the police statement concluded.
This operation has shed light on the illicit trade of expired food products in the city, sparking a call for stringent regulations and enforcement in Mogadishu’s markets. It underscores the crucial role of the police force in safeguarding public health and highlights the need for public vigilance against such harmful business practices.
