Police Seize Dozens of Vehicles in Major Assam Cattle Smuggling Crackdown

Guwahati: Fakirganj Police confiscated 16 cattle near Chalakura Fourth Part village in Assam's Dhubri district on August 31. This follows another smuggling incident in the same area on August 30. Authorities have started an investigation to find the source of the animals and identify the smugglers.

A massive bust occurred Sunday near Rangalu in Jakhalabandha, Nagaon district. Midnight vehicle checks turned into a chase. Police intercepted over 85 cattle-laden vehicles. Drivers fled. Many vehicles abandoned the scene. Jakhalabandha Police eventually secured 65 vehicles at their station.

Each truck held between 10 and 17 animals. The cattle were headed from Upper Assam toward Rupohi. Conditions were brutal. The animals were cramped into Bolero pickups and Tata DI vehicles. Some cattle reportedly died during transit. Local residents were furious. They demanded answers and intervened to help stop the transport. Tension gripped the area as citizens inspected the trucks themselves.

Questions remain about the police operation. Reports suggest five vehicles were allowed to leave before the lockdown began. Locals suspect many of the animals were stolen. One resident stated, "Questions have also been raised over the handling of the checking operation." Police are now working to confirm total animal counts, ownership, and the identities of the suspects behind the operation.