Bhubaneswar: Incidents of cattle smuggling continue to escalate in Odisha, provoking public outrage and raising serious concerns about law enforcement. Following a significant cattle trafficking case in Mayurbhanj district, new cases have emerged in Keonjhar and Bhadrak districts, highlighting a troubling trend of illegal cattle transport across the state.
Within just 48 hours of the Mayurbhanj incident, smuggling activities were uncovered in Keonjhar and Bhadrak, indicating that traffickers are operating with increasing boldness and impunity.
Accident in Keonjhar Uncovers Shocking Details
In Keonjhar, a disturbing incident came to light after a road accident near Dhakotha village on National Highway 20, close to Anandpur. A 12-wheeler heavy vehicle, stuck in traffic, was struck from behind by another vehicle. Local residents heard distressing sounds emanating from the container and decided to investigate. Upon opening the rear door, they were shocked to find over 50 bulls crammed tightly inside.
Several of the animals had broken limbs, and many were in critical condition due to the inhumane conditions. Locals immediately informed the Ghasipura police station. Law enforcement arrived at the scene, seized the vehicle, and arrested the driver. The injured bulls were later transferred to a cowshed in Balasore for medical treatment.
Gou Rakshyaks Foil Smuggling Attempt in Bhadrak
In Bhadrak district, the vigilance of local gou rakshyaks led to the prevention of yet another smuggling attempt. Acting on a tip-off, the activists pursued a Xylo vehicle suspected of transporting cattle illegally. The vehicle was intercepted near Chandia Chowk after a brief chase.
The Bhadrak Rural Police, alerted by the gou rakshyaks, promptly arrived at the scene, seized the vehicle, and rescued 12 cows. The swift coordination between the vigilantes and the police was widely praised by the local community.
Smugglers Changing Tactics
According to local gou rakshyaks, smugglers have recently altered their strategies. Previously, they primarily used large container trucks to transport cattle. However, due to increased scrutiny, traffickers are now resorting to smaller vehicles like pickup vans and SUVs, such as Xylos, to avoid detection.
The vigilantes have criticised the local administration for its inaction despite multiple complaints and requests. “The repeated incidents reflect a clear failure of the authorities to act decisively, which is emboldening these criminal networks,” said a local activist
Just two days prior, a significant cattle smuggling racket was busted in Mayurbhanj district. Near Brahmanmara village under Morada police station limits, 10 pickup vans loaded with cattle were en route to West Bengal. The traffickers panicked upon spotting a Forest Department vehicle. While nine vans managed to flee, one overturned after hitting a local resident’s house.
The quick response of the villagers led to the van being stopped. Morada police arrived at the scene, seized the vehicle, and rescued nine cattle. Shockingly, the animals had been stuffed inside like sacks of potatoes, reflecting the cruel and unhygienic conditions they were subjected to.
These incidents have reignited debate over the need for stronger enforcement and stricter laws to curb cattle trafficking in Odisha. Locals are demanding that authorities take swift and effective action before the situation escalates further.
