Malkangiri: In a major crackdown on illegal cattle trafficking, Malkangiri district headquarters police rescued 81 cows crammed inhumanely inside a container truck early Sunday morning.
Acting on a reliable tip-off received during routine patrolling, a team from Malkangiri Model Police Station officials intercepted and halted the suspicious container vehicle near the Champakhari check-post on the outskirts of Malkangiri town.
Upon inspection, officers opened the rear gate of the sealed container and discovered the 81 cows packed tightly in cruel, overcrowded conditions.
All the cows were safely rescued and are being provided necessary care. The driver of the vehicle was immediately detained for interrogation on charges of illegal cattle trafficking. The police have seized the container truck. A case has been registered suo motu under relevant sections, including provisions of the Odisha Prevention of Cow Slaughter Act and other laws prohibiting illegal transportation of cattle.
Police said that the cows were reportedly being smuggled from Nabarangpur district, possibly en route to outside the State for slaughter. Investigations are underway to identify the masterminds behind the racket, trace the intended destination, and uncover any larger network involved.
