MUBENDE — Police in Mubende District have intercepted four slaughtered dogs allegedly being transported for sale at roadside meat markets along the Kampala–Mubende–Fort Portal highway, raising fresh concerns over food safety and illegal meat trade practices.
The suspects, who were arrested during a police operation, reportedly admitted to sourcing stray dogs from surrounding villages, slaughtering them and supplying the meat to roadside vendors.
According to information published by the Daily Monitor, the suspects told investigators they had been carrying out the practice daily.
Police launched the operation following complaints from residents about the increasing disappearance of dogs in several villages around Mubende Municipality.
Authorities believe the slaughtered animals were destined for roadside markets frequented by travelers who stop along the highway for roasted meat and other snacks.
Investigators said the suspects confessed that stray dogs were routinely trapped, slaughtered, and distributed to vendors operating along the busy transport corridor.
The suspects are being held in police custody as investigations continue to identify other individuals believed to be involved in the operation.
The incident has sparked outrage among residents and animal welfare advocates, who are calling for tougher action against illegal slaughterhouses and stricter inspections of meat sold at roadside markets.
Public health experts have also warned consumers against purchasing meat from unlicensed vendors, noting that uninspected meat poses serious health risks and could expose the public to disease.
Police said the suspects could face charges related to illegal slaughter, public health violations and animal cruelty upon completion of investigations.
The seizure has renewed scrutiny of roadside meat businesses in Mubende, a district known for its numerous highway markets that serve thousands of travelers every week.
