Odisha Police Launches Major Operation Against Cattle Smuggling
Extensive Crackdown on 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 campaign against cattle smuggling in the northern and eastern regions of Odisha. Multiple raids were carried out 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 32 already raided.
During these actions, more than ₹50 lakh in cash has been recovered. However, authorities indicate that this is just an initial figure, as counting is still ongoing at some sites. 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, including 18 platoons, 8 additional Superintendents of Police, 17 Deputy Superintendents of Police, and 67 officers at the Inspector and Assistant Sub-Inspector levels.
Arrests and Ongoing Investigations
So far, police have detained over 14 suspects from Bhadrak, Balasore, and 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 about livestock theft and related issues. Following this, a joint operation was initiated under the supervision of the SPs from all three districts, which is still ongoing. We have recovered over ₹50 lakh in cash so far, and this is just the preliminary figure, as counting continues at some locations. Along with this, gold, silver, and several vehicles used for illegal cattle transport have also been seized.”
Commitment to Combat Illegal Cattle Smuggling
He further mentioned that the verification of vehicle documents is ongoing, and complete details will be shared after the operation concludes. We are taking a firm stance against illegal cattle smuggling. Balasore and Mayurbhanj have become major routes for such activities. Smugglers have been using less monitored paths and footpaths to transport livestock to neighboring states, causing economic losses to farmers and sometimes leading to social tensions.
DIG Mishra emphasized that cattle slaughter and illegal transport are prohibited in Odisha, and efforts to curb these activities will continue. Currently, police investigations are ongoing, and the operation will persist until this network is completely dismantled. Detailed information regarding the seized items and arrested individuals will be made public after the operation concludes.