New Delhi:A huge consignment of meat that reached Delhi through the Railways' parcel system created a stir among the security and investigation agencies. On receiving information that about 1,286.35 kg of suspicious meat was found in 20 thermocol boxes that arrived by Dakshin Express in the washing line of New Delhi Railway Station, the Railway Police and other concerned departments immediately swung into action. Initial information suggests that the meat may be beef. However, this has not been officially confirmed yet. Now the investigating agencies have their eyes fixed on the forensic report.
Case opened with information from Railway Vigilance Department
Railway DCP B Bharatreddy said that on November 8 at around 9 am, information was received from Railway Vigilance Unit, Baroda House that a consignment of suspicious meat had reached Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Yard through railway parcel. As soon as the information was received, the concerned investigating officer and station in-charge reached the spot along with the police team and started examining the boxes.
20 boxes reached Delhi from Hyderabad
As per preliminary information, a total of 20 cartons of thermocol were transported from Hyderabad to New Washing Line (Nizamuddin) through Train No. 12721 Dakshin Express. Their total weight is said to be approximately 1,286.35 kg. In the railway records, these parcels were booked in the name of 'Mutton' and 'Meat'. But after the complaint received regarding the consignment, it became necessary to investigate its actual nature.
FSL and veterinarian will examine the samples
Considering the seriousness of the matter, the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team and veterinarian were called to the spot. Action was initiated to collect samples of suspicious material, secure electronic evidence and complete other necessary legal procedures including e-evidence. The actual identity of the meat and its type can be known only after scientific testing. The test report of the samples will clarify what type of meat was in the boxes and how much truth is there in the initial apprehension.
Investigation continues in the presence of GRP and RPF
Teams of Government Railway Police (GRP) and Railway Protection Force (RPF) were present at the incident site. After collecting the samples, legal procedure will be followed to dispose of the material as per rules. At present, the booking, transportation and facts related to the consignment are being investigated.
Eyes fixed on the investigation report
This consignment weighing about 1.3 tonnes has also raised questions regarding the monitoring of the railway parcel system. However, before reaching any conclusion, scientific investigation and verification of related documents is necessary. At present, further investigation is going on in the matter.