Officials say fake milk was supplied across multiple districts daily
Major Breakthrough in Fight Against Fake Milk
The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) has arrested two key suspects allegedly involved in operating a large-scale contaminated milk supply network, dealing a major blow to the illegal trade threatening public health across the province.
Officials confirmed that Rauf Bhatti was arrested from Chakwal, while Maqsood Bhatti was taken into custody from Rawalpindi following intelligence-based operations.
Who Were the Accused?
According to law enforcement authorities:
- Maqsood Bhatti was wanted in six criminal cases
- Rauf Bhatti was facing eight cases and had been evading arrest for a prolonged period
Both suspects were allegedly central figures in the fake milk operation, coordinating production and supply across multiple regions.
What Authorities Revealed About the Network
A spokesperson for the Punjab Food Authority disclosed that the accused were producing and supplying approximately 200,000 litres of fake milk daily across Punjab.
Officials said the network relied on hazardous chemical mixtures to imitate milk, posing serious risks to:
- Children
- Elderly citizens
- Patients with compromised immunity
Evicted, Yet Operational
Authorities revealed that the suspects had previously been expelled from Punjab due to their illegal activities. However, they allegedly attempted to re-establish production units in other provinces and the federal capital.
Despite being declared persona non grata, the suspects continued operations, a move officials described as a direct challenge to the writ of the state.
How the Network Was Dismantled
The Director General of the Punjab Food Authority stated that intelligence-led surveillance helped identify:
- All production units linked to the suspects
- Distribution routes used to circulate fake milk
All associated units have now been sealed and shut down, according to officials.
Critical Analysis: A Persistent Threat to Public Health
The bust highlights a systemic challenge in Pakistan’s food safety enforcement. Despite repeated crackdowns, fake milk networks continue to resurface, indicating:
- Gaps in inter-provincial coordination
- Weak deterrence through penalties
- High profit margins in food adulteration
Experts warn that unless convictions lead to severe punishments and sustained monitoring, such networks will continue to endanger millions.
What Happens Next?
The PFA has vowed to:
- Prosecute all those involved under existing food safety laws
- Expand surveillance operations province-wide
- Strengthen coordination with law enforcement agencies
Officials reiterated that no compromise will be made on public health.