By Special Correspondent
Bhopal: The Madhya Pradesh Police have achieved significant success in their statewide drive against illegal cattle and animal smuggling, rescuing 141 cattle and other animals over the past seven days. The action, carried out through coordinated, intelligence-led and technology-enabled operations, also led to the seizure of vehicles used in the smuggling activities.
In Chhatarpur district, Naugaon police intercepted a suspicious 16-wheeler truck on the four-lane highway following a tip-off. A search revealed 45 cattle packed beyond the permitted capacity, leading to the arrest of three accused.
In Anuppur’s Kotma area, police recovered 22 buffaloes and calves from a truck and arrested the smugglers. An illegal country-made firearm and two live cartridges were also seized, with the total value of the recovered property estimated at around Rs 26 lakh.
Seoni police achieved a major breakthrough during night patrols by seizing a container vehicle and rescuing 27 cattle. In a separate operation, 39 more cattle were freed from another vehicle.
Meanwhile, Khargone police rescued four cattle in two separate cases, while Umaria police seized a pick-up vehicle and freed four animals, including buffaloes and calves. Cases have been registered under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the Motor Vehicles Act.
The police said sustained action against animal smugglers would continue to strengthen law and order and curb animal cruelty.
