Dhubri (Assam), 25 February (HS): A police operation against illegal cattle smuggling led to the recovery of six cattle from a Scorpio vehicle and the arrest of three persons in Bilasipara under Dhubri district.

According to police sources on Wednesday, a suspected smuggling network has been active in the Bilasipara area, allegedly transporting cattle from West Bengal into Assam through various routes. Acting on specific inputs, Bilasipara Police launched a drive against illegal cattle transportation.

During the operation on National Highway 17, police intercepted a luxury Scorpio vehicle (AS-01-AU-7975) and rescued six cattle that were being transported illegally. Three alleged smugglers were apprehended on the spot. Police stated that the animals were being carried in a cruel manner inside the vehicle.

The arrested accused have been identified as Sanowar Hussain, Anowar Hussain and Bahar Ali, all residents of Kathaldi village. Police suspect that the cattle were being transported from West Bengal towards char (riverine) areas of Bilasipara.

Meanwhile, two alleged kingpins of the racket, identified as Hazrat and Jaynal, are reported to be absconding. Bilasipara Police has launched a manhunt to trace the absconders, and further investigation into the case is underway.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash