The Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) and the police intervened on Friday, June 6, at an illegal slaughterhouse on a farm in North Limburg. The illegal slaughterhouse was discovered thanks to a report to the police. At the site, at least 4 carcasses of sheep and a large amount of slaughter waste were found. The meat and slaughter waste have been seized. Further investigation is ongoing.
There were 8 sheep ready to be slaughtered. They have been handed over to a foundation that ensures they get a new home.
Strict Approach to Illegal Slaughter
The NVWA and the police are particularly alert to illegal slaughter outside recognized slaughterhouses during this period. Offenders face strict penalties: the fine for illegal slaughter without stunning can reach up to €103,000. Additionally, offenders risk a prison sentence of up to six years.
Reporting Helps!
This illegal slaughterhouse was discovered thanks to a report. Anyone with information about illegal slaughter, or who sees something suspicious, such as a sheep in an unusual place or possibly stolen grazing animals, can report this to the NVWA at 0900 – 0388. This can also be done anonymously.
More Information
For questions about this news report, journalists can contact the press information team of the NVWA, telephone number 088 - 22 33 700.
Consumers and businesses can contact the Customer Contact Center at 0900-03 88 (standard call costs).