OUTHOUSES AND SHEDS were searched today during a multi-agency investigation into illegal animal slaughter.

The Food Standards Agency said that the suspected illegal animal slaughter and meat cutting operations were discovered in the Newry and Mourne area.

The investigation is centred in the South Armagh area and the FSA is currently investigating which businesses have been supplied with meat from the plant.

Maria Jennings, Director of the FSA in Northern Ireland, said that the information they have tells them that meat was being produced illegally, without official hygiene checks.

She said that the FSA is working closely with the PSNI and all relevant authorities, including DARD and the district Council on this investigation.

The aim is “to stop further production at this plant and to protect the safety of the food chain”.

Police said that a number of premises are being searched and the Food Standards Agency is providing them with assistance.

It is understood that the investigation involves the searching of outhouses and sheds.

Chief Inspector Davy Beck, Area Commander for Newry and Mourne said that the investigation is at an early stage.

However he confirmed that the aim was to address agricultural crime and work with partner organisations to protect the safety of the food chain.