Major Cattle Smuggling Racket Busted in Jamugurihat; MLA Padma Hazarika Leads Operation

JAMUGURIHAT – In a significant crackdown on illegal livestock trade, a major cattle smuggling racket was intercepted at Ghatimari under Jamugurihat on Sunday night. The operation, led personally by Naduar MLA Padma Hazarika with the support of local residents, resulted in the recovery of a large number of stolen cattle and the arrest of one suspect.

The Midnight Operation

Acting on specific intelligence regarding the movement of stolen livestock, MLA Hazarika and a group of vigilant locals intercepted two trucks moving under the cover of darkness. The vehicles were allegedly being used to transport the cattle illegally out of the region.

During the intervention:

• Seizure: A large number of cattle were recovered from the trucks.
• Arrest: One individual, identified as Jalaluddin, was apprehended on the spot.
• Escapees: Several other accomplices, including a man named Inamul, managed to flee the scene taking advantage of the dark.

The recovered cattle and the arrested suspect have been handed over to the Jamuguri Police for further legal proceedings.

Speaking to the press following the operation, MLA Padma Hazarika raised alarms regarding the scale of the operation. He suggested that the local theft might be a small part of a much larger, international smuggling syndicate.

“This is not an isolated incident. There is strong suspicion that an organized and possibly international smuggling network is involved. A thorough investigation is necessary to identify everyone connected to this racket,” Hazarika stated.

The MLA has formally directed the police to conduct an exhaustive probe to track the “money trail” and the logistics behind the smuggling route. He also urged the public to remain eyes and ears for the administration to help curb the growing menace of cattle lifting in Assam.

Public Demand for Vigilance

The incident has sparked renewed concerns among residents regarding cross-border crimes. Local communities are now demanding:

1. Increased Patrolling: Enhanced police presence on transit routes during night hours.
2. Stricter Enforcement: Fast-track legal action against habitual offenders.
3. Surveillance: Better monitoring of border-bound commercial vehicles.

As the investigation continues, Jamuguri Police are reportedly launching a manhunt to nab the fleeing suspects, including Inamul.