«البيئة» لـ«عكاظ»: لا تشتروا الأضاحي من المصادر غير الموثوقة

The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture confirmed to "Okaz" the importance of purchasing sacrificial animals from reliable sources and adhering to slaughtering at approved abattoirs to avoid health risks. It also stated that field teams monitor all veterinary establishments and breeders, implement ongoing awareness campaigns, and conduct inspections of the sacrificial animals under the supervision of specialized veterinarians to ensure their safety. All registered and approved veterinary medicines by the relevant authorities are subject to precise scientific studies, including determining the necessary withdrawal periods.

The ministry pointed out that abattoirs and animal products are under continuous supervision, and regulations are enforced with fines of up to 35,000 riyals if it is proven that animals were given growth-promoting substances or lactation stimulants or stimulants such as antimicrobials or hormones for non-medical reasons. The fine is 180,000 riyals if there is a lack of cooperation with health surveillance teams regarding the epidemiological health situation and failure to inform service providers or investors when there is suspicion of epidemic diseases.

A fine of 5,000 riyals is also imposed for illegal slaughtering by individuals or establishments not licensed by the ministry or its delegates, or for slaughtering outside of abattoirs, with a fine of 5,000 riyals for the first offense, 10,000 riyals for the second offense, and 20,000 riyals for the third offense for each person.