Meghalaya's Cattle Smuggling Exposed: Courier Trucks Used for Illegal Transport

In Meghalaya, cattle smugglers have been caught using courier trucks to transport livestock illegally. This alarming discovery was made by the Hynniewtrep Youth Council at a check-gate, where they found nine cattle crammed into a truck without proper documentation or health certificates. The situation raises significant concerns regarding animal welfare and legal compliance. The HYC is urging authorities to investigate and enforce stricter regulations on animal transport. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in combating illegal activities in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 5, 2025, 12:45 IST

Cattle Smuggling Tactics in Meghalaya

Shillong, July 5: In a surprising twist, cattle smugglers in Meghalaya have adopted a novel approach to evade detection by utilizing courier service trucks for their operations.

This illegal activity was uncovered by members of the Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC) at the Anti-Infiltration Check-gate in Byrnihat.

What seemed like a standard courier vehicle was found to be transporting nine cattle in overcrowded and distressing conditions.

The mini-truck, registered in Assam with the number AS-01-RC-7779, was reportedly moving the animals across state lines without the necessary documentation.

Upon inquiry by HYC members, the individuals in the truck could not provide the required paperwork for the interstate transport of livestock.

Additionally, they lacked a health certificate from relevant state authorities to verify the animals' suitability for human consumption.

The conditions in which the cattle were being transported raised serious concerns, as they were crammed into an airless section of the vehicle.

This practice breaches multiple legal provisions, including the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, the Transport of Animals Rules, 1978 (as amended), and the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.

HYC President Roy Kuper Synrem expressed confusion over how such transportation could occur within the state while blatantly ignoring the law.

The HYC has called on authorities to investigate the situation promptly and ensure that all animal transport—both into and within the state—complies with legal standards.

The organization is also advocating for the enforcement of existing Standard Operating Procedures and enhanced monitoring at border checkpoints.