Tanzania intercepts 5000 chicks from Kenya, to destroy them

Tanzanian President John Magufuli (PHOTO: FILE)

NAIROBI, KENYA: Tanzanian government has confiscated imports at the Namanga border in Longido District, Arusha Region.

The goods which include 5000 tonnes of sugar, salt, 18 bags of tea leaves, 5000 chicks and 416 trays of eggs will be destroyed while those found to be fit for consumption donated to schools and other learning institutions, Tanzanian media reports.

According to Daily News the illegal consignments included  miraa and were being smuggled by three traders from Kenya to Tanzania.

The three traders lacked official documents for importation or tax clearance.

Last year Tanzanian government impounded over 6000 chicks worth Sh12.5 million at Namanga border town and destroyed them. It also confisticated Kenyan cattle that were being grazed there.

It was reported that the destruction of the consignment came in the wake of illegal imports and fear of the spread of bird flu.

Dar authorities said last year’s destruction of the birds was in line with the country’s Animal Disease Act, 2003.