The Ostrobothnian police suspect that the man will slaughter up to 1,300 sheep without first stunning, which is contrary to Finnish animal welfare laws.
Yle has learned that the suspected crimes took place over four years in the production of halal meat.
According to Finnish law, animals must be sedated before slaughter. However, the law provides an exception for religiously slaughtered animals that are sedated at the same time as the bleeding begins.
The law also states that an inspection veterinarian must be present during the procedure.
According to the Food Agency, killing or slaughtering animals in Finland "must be performed as quickly and as painfully as possible."
In some countries, halal slaughter occurs when the carotid arteries of an animal are opened while it is still conscious. This method is against the Finnish Protection Act.
Detective inspector Sakari Palomäki told Yle that police believe the Ostrobothnian man did not slaughter his sheep in accordance with the law.
"The main suspect lives in the Ostrobothnian Police Department. Most of the suspected crimes have taken place here, but they have also taken place elsewhere in Finland," Palomäki said.
“Planned and repeated” crimes
Palomäki added that the main suspect in the case is not a sheep farmer and has no other related business. Instead, she is suspected of buying sheep in the name of another man and slaughtering them illegally for sale.
"We think the action is planned and repeated," Palomäki said.
Police launched a preliminary investigation after animal welfare authorities uncovered the suspicions. The probe was started about six months ago and will last for at least another month.
In addition to serious animal welfare offenses, the case is also being investigated for environmental damage because police suspect that slaughterhouse waste will be disposed of properly.
The suspect had been arrested for about a month, but has since been released. Police estimate that the suspect may have earned tens of thousands or even more than a hundred thousand euros for the suspected crimes.
Four other people have also been arrested during the preliminary investigation.
A serious offense against animal welfare is punishable by a minimum of four months and a maximum of four years’ imprisonment.
Source: The Nordic Page