Maldives Immigration has dismissed a list circulating on social media that falsely claims certain shops are selling food made from cat meat allegedly produced by the recently arrested Bangladeshi national, Arfat Hossain.

The list, which names twenty outlets and warns consumers to consult a doctor if they have purchased products from these locations, has raised widespread concern across the country.

Immigration Controller General Mohamed Shamaan Waheed took to social media platform X to clarify that the list is entirely fabricated. He urged the public to verify the accuracy of any information shared on social media, particularly when it relates to matters of public interest.

The investigation into Arfat Hossain's activities is ongoing and is being handled by the relevant authorities, Waheed added.

Arfat Hossain, 32, was arrested after failing to comply with a summons from Maldives Immigration.

He is accused of killing stray cats and using their meat to prepare food, which he allegedly sold in foreign influenced markets.

Furthermore, authorities have confirmed that Arfat was living and working in the Maldives illegally.

Social media posts have fueled public outrage, with videos showing Arfat in a parking area near Boduthakurufaanu Magu—a location known for its large stray cat population.

In one video, Arfat is questioned by a local about why he was carrying plastic bags in the area. He responded that he was using the bags to transport cats.

Neighbors in the vicinity of Arfat’s residence have also reported hearing cat cries and seeing cat body parts nearby.

Reliable sources suggest that Arfat had been preparing food, such as burgers and submarines, at his home and selling these items without proper labeling in foreign-influenced shops known as "Bondhu" markets. 

As part of a broader effort to enhance food safety, a new bill mandating proper labeling and safety standards for prepared foods will come into effect on August 24.

The law is designed to ensure that all food sold in the Maldives is properly labeled and meets stringent safety requirements.