Odisha Police Launches Major Crackdown on Cattle Smuggling

In a decisive move against cattle smuggling, Odisha police have initiated a large-scale operation, leading to significant cash and valuables being seized. Under the leadership of DIG Pinak Mishra, the operation has already conducted raids at 32 locations across various districts. With over ₹50 lakh recovered and numerous suspects detained, the police are determined to dismantle the organized smuggling networks that threaten local farmers and communities. This crackdown highlights the ongoing commitment of law enforcement to combat illegal activities in the region. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 14, 2026, 10:58 IST

Extensive Operation Against Cattle Smuggling in Odisha

In Odisha, law enforcement has initiated a significant operation targeting cattle smuggling. DIG Pinak Mishra reported that there have been ongoing complaints regarding livestock theft and related incidents. Consequently, a joint operation was launched, which is still in progress. So far, raids have been conducted at 32 locations, resulting in the seizure of over ₹50 lakh in cash.

Details of the Operation

The police have executed a comprehensive crackdown on cattle smuggling in the northern and eastern regions of Odisha. Multiple raids were conducted simultaneously in districts such as Balasore, Bhadrak, and Mayurbhanj, leading to the recovery of substantial amounts of cash, gold and silver jewelry, and weapons. According to police officials, this operation is being led by DIG Pinak Mishra of the Eastern Range. A total of 36 locations were identified for the operation, with raids successfully carried out at 32 sites.

During these operations, more than ₹50 lakh in cash has been recovered. However, authorities indicate that this figure is preliminary, as counting is still ongoing at some locations. Additionally, a significant quantity of gold and silver jewelry has also been confiscated.

Organized Smuggling Operations

The police have also seized several two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles used in the cattle smuggling operations. The documentation for these vehicles is currently under review. Furthermore, weapons and firearms were discovered at various locations, suggesting that the smuggling ring was operating in an organized manner.

A large police team was deployed for this operation, which included 18 platoons, 8 additional Superintendents of Police, 17 Deputy Superintendents of Police, and 67 officers at the Inspector and Sub-Inspector levels.

Arrests and Ongoing Investigations

So far, police have detained over 14 suspects from Bhadrak, Balasore, and Mayurbhanj for questioning. Some individuals managed to escape during the raids, but police are confident they will apprehend them soon.

DIG Pinak Mishra provided updates on the situation, stating, “We have been receiving continuous complaints regarding livestock theft and related issues. Following this, a joint operation was initiated under the supervision of the SPs from all three districts. To date, raids at 32 locations have yielded over ₹50 lakh in cash. This is just an initial figure, as counting is still ongoing at some sites. Along with cash, gold, silver, and several vehicles used for illegal cattle transport have also been seized.”

Commitment to Combat Illegal Cattle Smuggling

He further emphasized that the investigation into vehicle documentation is ongoing, and a comprehensive report will be shared once the operation concludes. The police are committed to taking a strong stance against illegal cattle smuggling. Balasore and Mayurbhanj have become key routes for such activities, with smugglers utilizing less monitored paths and footpaths to transport livestock to neighboring states. This not only causes economic harm to farmers but also sometimes leads to social tensions.

DIG Mishra reiterated that cattle slaughter and illegal transport are prohibited in Odisha, and efforts to curb these activities will continue. The police investigation is ongoing, and operations will persist until this network is completely dismantled. Detailed information regarding the seized items and arrested suspects will be made public after the operation concludes.