Dhubri (Assam), 23 August (HS): An alleged network involved in the illegal transportation of cattle to neighbouring Bangladesh has come to light in Dhubri district, with cattle reportedly being smuggled through river routes from Gauripur after passing through the Parbatjhora area of Kokrajhar district.

The development comes amid the recent opening of cattle markets in various areas under the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC). According to reports, some cattle traders have been illegally transporting cattle towards Bangladesh using river routes in and around Gauripur.

Acting on a tip-off, Athani Police launched an operation in the Jharmura and Ambari areas in the early hours of Sunday and intercepted nine cattle allegedly being transported illegally. Three persons were arrested in connection with the operation.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Rahij Uddin, Rupchan Ali and Azgar Ali. Police are questioning the three suspects to gather further information about the alleged cattle smuggling network and its routes.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash