In a significant crackdown on cattle smuggling, the Jiyanpur police in Uttar Pradesh's Azamgarh district have arrested two individuals, including the caretaker of a cow shelter, for their alleged involvement in a theft attempt earlier this month.
The Arrests and Confession
Acting on a specific tip-off, the police launched a checking drive and intercepted the two accused near the Bharauli turn on Tuesday. The arrested men have been identified as Puranmal Yadav, a resident of Karmauta in Ballia district, and Tej Pratap Shahi alias Pappu of Parankhurd.
During interrogation, Tej Pratap Shahi confessed to being the caretaker of the Parankunda Goshala and revealed his collusion with organised cattle-smuggling networks. He admitted to facilitating thefts from the shelter for monetary gain. Puranmal Yadav was identified as the owner of the pickup van that was to be used for transporting the stolen cattle.
Details of the Foiled Theft Attempt
The arrests are directly linked to an incident on the night of January 4, when locals and police personnel thwarted an attempt to steal cattle from the Parankunda Goshala. According to police, the accused had devised a plan to steal the animals from the village cowshed and smuggle them to the neighbouring state of Bihar via Mau district using the pickup van.
Upon receiving information about the planned theft, the police swiftly cordoned off the area surrounding the Goshala. However, exploiting the cover of darkness, the accused managed to flee the scene, abandoning the vehicle loaded with cattle.
Recovery and Ongoing Investigation
The police successfully recovered four cattle from the abandoned pickup van and seized the vehicle as evidence. Assistant Superintendent of Police (Rural) Chirag Jain stated that a thorough investigation is currently underway. The primary focus is to identify and apprehend the other members of the smuggling gang involved in this and potentially other similar operations.
This case highlights a troubling trend of insiders within protective shelters aiding criminal activities. The police action underscores a continued vigil against cattle smuggling rings operating in the region.
