Major Illegal Slaughter Unit Busted in Chhattrapati Sambhajinagar Pre-Dawn Raid
In a significant crackdown on illegal animal slaughter, the crime branch and Cantonment police conducted a joint pre-dawn operation in Chhattrapati Sambhajinagar, resulting in the seizure of twenty-one cows and bulls along with approximately 510 kilograms of suspected beef. The raid targeted an unauthorized slaughter unit operating from a concealed godown located behind the Kasambari Dargah garbage depot early Friday morning.
Swift Police Action Based on Tip-Off
Police officials revealed that the operation was launched around 4 am after a sub-inspector received credible intelligence regarding illegal cattle slaughter activities at the site. Upon arrival, law enforcement personnel encountered six individuals at the scene. However, five of them managed to escape under the cover of darkness, while one accused, identified as Manoj Bhalerao, was apprehended on the spot.
Crime branch inspector Gajanan Kalyankar stated, "On noticing the police, five people present at the spot fled under the cover of darkness. One accused, Manoj Bhalerao, was apprehended at the scene." During subsequent interrogation, Bhalerao allegedly disclosed the identities of the absconding individuals, prompting police to deploy specialized teams to trace and arrest them.
Disturbing Conditions and Substantial Seizures
A thorough search of the godown uncovered alarming conditions, with the twenty-one cows and bulls allegedly kept in cramped and inhumane environments intended for slaughter. Alongside the live animals, authorities confiscated around 510 kilograms of meat, strongly suspected to be derived from slaughtered cattle.
The total estimated value of the seizure amounts to Rs 14.12 lakh, comprising:
- Animals valued at Rs 10.5 lakh
- Suspected beef worth Rs 1.02 lakh
- A loading rickshaw priced at Rs 1 lakh
- Three motorcycles valued at Rs 1.6 lakh
Investigators further revealed that Bhalerao claimed the premises owner had allegedly arranged the cattle for slaughter, indicating potential involvement of additional parties in the illegal operation.
Legal Proceedings and Charges Filed
An First Information Report (FIR) has been officially registered at the Cantonment police station under multiple legal provisions. The charges include:
- Sections 325 and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
- Sections 11 and 9(c) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act
- Relevant provisions of the Maharashtra Animal Preservation Act
This comprehensive legal action underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating violations of animal welfare and preservation laws in the state. The case remains under active investigation as police continue efforts to apprehend the remaining suspects involved in this illicit slaughter network.
