Odisha Police Launches Major Operation Against Cattle Smuggling
Comprehensive Crackdown on Cattle Smuggling
In Odisha, law enforcement has initiated an extensive 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 currently in progress. So far, raids have been conducted at 32 locations, resulting in the seizure of over ₹5 million in cash.
Significant Seizures in Multiple Districts
Odisha Crime Update: The police have intensified their efforts against cattle smuggling in the northern and eastern regions of Odisha. Raids were executed simultaneously in several areas of Balasore, Bhadrak, and Mayurbhanj districts, 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 conducted at 32 sites.
During these operations, more than ₹5 million 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 Disrupted
The police have also seized several two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles used in the cattle smuggling operations. 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 team of police personnel was deployed for this operation, including 18 platoons, 8 additional SPs, 17 DSPs, and 67 officers at the SI and ASI levels.
Arrests and Ongoing Investigations
So far, police have detained over 14 suspects, with 6 from Bhadrak, 4 from Balasore, and 4 from Mayurbhanj. Interrogations are ongoing. Some individuals managed to escape during the raids, but police are confident they will be apprehended 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 the three districts, which is still ongoing. To date, raids at 32 locations have yielded over ₹5 million in cash. This is just the initial figure, as counting continues at some sites. Alongside this, 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 comprehensive details will be shared once the operation concludes. We are taking a firm stance against illegal cattle smuggling. Balasore and Mayurbhanj have become key routes for such activities. Smugglers have been utilizing less monitored paths and footpaths to transport livestock to neighboring states, causing economic losses to farmers and sometimes leading to social tensions.
DIG Mishra reiterated that cattle slaughter and illegal transport are prohibited in Odisha, and efforts to curb these activities will continue. Currently, police investigations are ongoing, and operations will persist to dismantle this network completely. Detailed information regarding the seized items and arrested suspects will be made public after the operation concludes.