The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) has claimed a major success after dismantling what it described as the largest fake milk production and distribution network in the province. The crackdown resulted in the arrest of three key suspects, identified as Maqsood Bhatti, Rauf Bhatti, and Dr. Khalid, who were allegedly running large-scale fake milk operations across multiple districts.
According to PFA officials, Maqsood Bhatti was wanted in six criminal cases, while Rauf Bhatti was wanted in eight cases and had remained on the police’s most-wanted list for an extended period.
200,000 Litres of Fake Milk Produced Daily
Punjab Food Authority Director General Asim Javed revealed that the accused were producing approximately 200,000 litres of fake milk every day, which was supplied to various cities and towns across Punjab. He said the adulterated milk posed a serious threat to public health, especially to children and the elderly.
The DG added that after being forced out of Punjab during earlier crackdowns, the suspects attempted to shift their operations to other provinces and the federal territory to continue their illegal business.
Units Sealed Across Punjab
Asim Javed said that all production units linked to the network have been shut down, and hideouts of Maqsood Bhatti and Rauf Bhatti were sealed across Punjab following intelligence-based operations and surveillance.
Cases against the suspects have been registered in Faisalabad, Chakwal, Vehari, Bahawalnagar, and Rawalpindi, with further legal action underway.
CM Praises Law Enforcement Agencies
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif praised the Chief Secretary Punjab, Secretary Home, and Inspector General of Police Punjab for the successful operation. She reiterated that the provincial government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against food adulteration.
The DG PFA termed those involved as “food terrorists”, stating that the authority would not compromise on food safety and would continue to eliminate such elements completely to protect public health.
