Police Encounter in Azamgarh Results in Arrest of Cattle Smuggling Duo
In a late-night operation in Azamgarh district, police arrested two individuals, including a notorious accused involved in cattle smuggling and cow slaughter, following an encounter. The incident occurred near Gambhirwan (Baraila Taal) village on Saturday night, leading to the apprehension of the suspects and the recovery of incriminating evidence.
Night Patrol Leads to Tip-Off and Confrontation
According to ASP (City) Madhuvan Kumar Singh, Jahanaganj police were conducting routine night patrols when informers alerted them to suspicious activity involving stray cattle being loaded into a pickup van. Acting swiftly on the tip, police teams rushed to the scene and cordoned off the area to prevent escape.
When the accused attempted to flee, they allegedly opened fire on the police personnel. In response, the police retaliated, resulting in one of the accused sustaining a bullet injury to his leg. The injured individual was identified as Mohim Ahmad, while his accomplice was named as Sunil Kumar, both residents of the Rani Ki Sarai area.
Recovery of Evidence and Criminal History
Following the encounter, police seized a country-made pistol, cartridges, a pickup van, and one stray cattle from the possession of the accused. Ahmad was promptly transported to a hospital for medical treatment of his injuries.
ASP Singh disclosed that Mohim Ahmad has a lengthy criminal record, with eight cases filed against him for charges including cow slaughter, cattle smuggling, robbery, theft, and violations under the Arms Act. Ahmad confessed to operating primarily during late-night hours, targeting stray cattle in isolated or deserted areas to avoid detection.
Confession Reveals Smuggling and Slaughter Operations
During interrogation, Ahmad admitted that after slaughtering the animals, he and his associates sold the beef at premium prices and disposed of the remains by discarding them in rivers, drains, or burying them to conceal evidence. The accused also revealed their involvement in smuggling cattle to other states, with Bihar being a primary destination.
Police noted that Ahmad had previously been arrested and jailed multiple times for similar offenses related to cow slaughter and cattle smuggling, highlighting his persistent criminal activities in the region.
