Expats handling fish in unhygienic conditions

Manama : A group of Asian expatriates are using a spot next to a large garbage can to run their fish trade. Run by a group of Bangladesh nationals, the fish handling spot is near Yateem Centre in the capital.

According to sources, the business is run illegally and workers store and handle the fish in unhygienic conditions. The fish are kept at the location all day, flies and stray animals are often seen there, a source told DT News. 

“Residents were shocked to see the fish stored right next to a trash can. Apart from being concerned about hygiene, the residents are inconvenienced because it occupies public space. Also the residents are forced to bear the fish smell,” the source said.

Boxes made of thermocol are used to store the fish. 

“The fish are left in boxes made of thermocol and it is left in the location day and night. Once they were seen cleaning the fish near the trash can,” the source said.

Although, it is not clear to whom the men sell the fish to.  “They do not sell directly to customers but they supply to other businesses.” However, this is yet to be reported to the authorities, the source said. 

“Although the residents are annoyed by this, they are yet to report to the authorities. It is hoped that a police report will be filed regarding this.”

Reportedly the trade started a month ago. “It was just one man running the business, now around four workers are helping him,” the source said. 

“This is happening right under my building. It is pathetic to see how they store fish next to a trash can. Those who buy from them would not know about the conditions that they store and handle the fish. We warned them that we would complain to the authorities but they have ignored us so far,” said Reshmi, a resident of the area. 

A video sent to DT News showed the men handling the fish and breaking ice in order to store the fish.