9 pick-up vans with 40 cows seized, 18 held in Kandhamal

KalingaTV News Network

Baliguda: Police seized nine pick-up vans carrying 40 cows from Sarangada Gate area in Kandhamal district on Thursday and arrested 18 persons.

A group of villagers from Sarangada area intercepted the pick-up vans at Sarangada Gate following a tip off on the illegal cattle transport in the evening. They arrested the drivers and helpers of the vans after finding cows laden in inhumane condition in those.

Getting intimation on the incident Sarangada Police reached the spot and arrested the detainees. They have also seized the pick-up vans used in cattle transport.

“At least 40 cattle were being transported to Narasinghpur area in Cuttack district from Kalahandi district. We have seized the vehicles and arrested drivers and helpers of the vans who would be forwarded   to court tomorrow,” said G Udaygiri SDPO Amaresh Kumar Panigrahi.

On the other hand, a village based voluntary organisation has demanded immediate release of the cows and stringent action on the cattle traders.

“The illegal cattle trade have flourished in the district in last five to six months. We demand stringent action against the guilty. We would intensify our stir and gherao the police station if cops opt to be lenient with the accused,” said Purusottam Sahu, member of the voluntary organisation.