Nagaon (Assam), 24 October (HS): Rupohihat police in Assam’s Nagaon district rescued 12 cattle from a goods-carrying pickup van allegedly being used for illegal cattle smuggling on Saturday.

According to police, the vehicle was intercepted during an operation against cattle smuggling. During the inspection, the police discovered a concealed wooden compartment specially designed inside the pickup van to transport the animals secretly.

The 12 cattle were found crammed into the hidden compartment with their legs tied, raising concerns over their condition during transportation. Preliminary investigation suggested that the animals were being transported illegally across state lines.

Following the seizure, the rescued cattle were shifted to a local cowshed, where arrangements were made for their food and care.

The suspected smugglers, however, managed to escape before they could be apprehended. Rupohihat police have launched an investigation to identify the owner of the vehicle, trace the suspects and uncover the network allegedly involved in the illegal cattle transportation.---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash