Police uncover cattle smuggling racket in Jalpaiguri, 13 cows rescued from hidden truck compartment

On Wednesday morning, West Bengal police intercepted a truck suspected of smuggling cattle on National Highway 31 in Rajganj, Jalpaiguri, rescuing 13 cows that were hidden inside the vehicle. The operation occurred after police received specific intelligence about illegal cattle trafficking in the area. Police had set up a checkpoint near the Phata Pukur toll plaza, a known location for such activities.

The truck, traveling from Bihar to Assam, appeared to be carrying only empty drums. However, during a detailed inspection, officers discovered that the drums were used to conceal the cows, which were found cramped inside the barrels. The cows were immediately freed from the inhumane conditions, and no immediate injuries were reported.

The driver of the truck, whose identity has not been disclosed, was arrested at the scene. According to police, the arrested individual is being questioned to gather more information about the trafficking network involved in this illegal operation. Authorities have confirmed that the truck was headed to Assam, where cattle smuggling has been a recurring issue in recent months.

The police investigation revealed that the use of drums to hide the cattle is a common method employed by traffickers to evade detection. Police did not provide further details about the method of smuggling, but confirmed the operation is part of a larger crackdown on cattle trafficking networks operating across the state. Authorities are working with law enforcement in Assam to track down other individuals connected to the operation.

This successful interception is part of the ongoing efforts by West Bengal police to combat illegal cattle trafficking, which is a major concern for the state. Increased surveillance and routine inspections on key routes have been implemented to detect and prevent the smuggling of livestock. The police have also indicated they are focused on dismantling organized smuggling rings that use complex tactics to transport cattle illegally.