Butchers operating in Rumbek were arrested by security officers following their decision to increase the price of meat without due consultation with the relevant authorities.
Rumbek Mayor Sebit Chawop told Good News Radio that he condemned the butchers’ resolution to increase the price of meat without consulting the Town Council, saying the hike was a total violation of law and regulations and amounted to corruption.He confirmed the butchers were arrested on Tuesday after legal charges have been levelled to them and will be brought to court soon.
Mr. Chawop insisted that Lakes State government will not permit any increase in meat prices and it will look for alternative suppliers if the butchers refuse to comply with the business regulations.
The Mayor said that the price of meat in Rumbek is expected to come down, explaining that unlike imported foodstuff, meat is produced locally and prices can be controlled.
Mr. Chawop called on the public to be patient as his office tackles the matter, encouraging cooks to consider alternatives like fish.
Meat in Rumbek market rose from 10 to 13 Sudanese Pounds per kilo, an increase of 30 percent.