Odisha Police Launch Major Crackdown on Cattle Smuggling Network
Police in Odisha conducted a sweeping coordinated operation on Saturday, targeting an alleged cattle smuggling ring across multiple districts. The action resulted in the arrest of ten individuals and the seizure of a substantial Rs 1.25 crore in cash.
Massive Police Operation Spans Five Districts
Authorities launched the operation based on specific intelligence and public complaints. They carefully planned the raids to maintain the element of surprise. A total of forty-six police teams participated in this large-scale effort.
Keonjhar district police led the operation under the supervision of Deputy Inspector General (western range) Brijesh Rai. The coordinated strikes covered areas in Jajpur, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Bhadrak, and Khurda districts.
Details of Arrests and Cash Seizures
Police identified the ten arrested individuals. Nine belong to Keonjhar district, while one hails from Mayurbhanj. The accused include Sk Rajan, Tipu Sultan, Kunu Sahu, Arjun Sahu, Sipu Sahu, Mruthynjaya Mohapatra, Sujit Mohanty, Sk Akbar, Sk Nasir, and Sk Naeem.
DIG Brijesh Rai provided specific details about the cash recoveries. "Multiple teams from Keonjhar police raided locations in Mayurbhanj with support from local police," he stated. "Supporters of the smugglers attempted to obstruct our officers but failed. We arrested one person there and seized Rs 40 lakh."
From Bhadrak district, authorities recovered Rs 60 lakh. Keonjhar district yielded another Rs 25 lakh in seized cash.
Ongoing Raids and Expected Asset Value
Police confirmed that raids are continuing across various locations. Officers expressed confidence about seizing additional cash, vehicles, and other assets in the coming days. They estimate the total value of assets connected to this smuggling network could reach an astonishing Rs 100 crore.
The operation targeted specific villages and areas known for smuggling activity:
- Keonjhar District: Santarapur, Kaliahata, Telkoi, Ghasipura, Turumunga, Jamujodi
- Mayurbhanj District: Bishoi, Karanjia, Jharpokharia, Tentoposhi, Chadheibhol, Kendrei, Thakurmunda
- Jajpur District: Korei and other locations
Significant Police Deployment and Past Cases
A senior officer revealed that coordinated raids hit forty-six different locations connected to the illegal cattle mafia. The police force deployed for this operation was substantial, including:
- Two Additional Superintendents of Police
- Five Deputy Superintendents of Police
- Twenty-five Police Inspectors
- Thirty-six Sub-Inspectors and Assistant Sub-Inspectors
- Eight platoons of police personnel stationed at raid sites
Keonjhar Superintendent of Police Nitin Kushalkar provided context about the suspects. "More than fifty-six cases were already registered against this cattle mafia at various police stations in Keonjhar district alone," he said. "These individuals consistently evaded arrest. They used vehicles to ram police and even attacked officers with firearms. We took decisive action against them today."
Additional Seizures and Legal Proceedings
During the raids, police discovered important documents related to real estate holdings, financial transactions, and bank deposits. Officers used counting machines to tally the large amounts of seized cash.
SP Kushalkar outlined the next legal steps. "We will seek court permission to confiscate their properties," he stated. "Further action will follow in accordance with legal procedures."
Beyond cash, police seized eleven four-wheeled vehicles and thirteen two-wheelers. The haul also included mobile phones and numerous bank documents that could provide further evidence.
This operation represents a significant blow to organized cattle smuggling activities in the region. Police efforts continue as they pursue additional leads and assets connected to this criminal network.
