Cattle rescued, 33 arrested in Assam smuggling crackdown: Himanta Sarma

Guwahati, Aug 31 (AHN) Assam Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, on Monday said the state police had launched simultaneous operations at three locations to crack down on cattle smuggling, resulting in the seizure of 22 vehicles, rescue of 298 animals and arrest of 33 people.

Taking to social media platform X, Sarma warned those involved in cattle smuggling that such activities would not be tolerated in Assam.

“Listen up, cattle smugglers - there is no place for cattle smuggling on the soil of Assam!” the Chief Minister said in his post.

Sarma said the operations conducted by the Assam Police at three locations simultaneously demonstrated the state government's resolve to curb cattle smuggling and take action against those involved in the illegal transportation of cattle.

According to the Chief Minister, a total of 22 vehicles used in the alleged smuggling operations were seized during the coordinated action.

Police also rescued 298 animals and arrested 33 people in connection with the operations.

Sarma credited the Assam Police for the action and said the operation had sent a clear message that cattle smuggling would no longer be tolerated in the state.

The Chief Minister also linked the crackdown to the state government's stated objective of protecting cattle, describing it as part of Assam's resolve to safeguard the animals.

The simultaneous operations at multiple locations are expected to strengthen enforcement against illegal cattle transportation and smuggling networks operating in the state.

Assam shares international and interstate borders through which cattle are transported, making enforcement and monitoring at strategic locations an important part of efforts to prevent illegal movement of animals.

The state government has repeatedly maintained that strict action would be taken against cattle smuggling and illegal transportation.

Monday's operation comes as part of continued enforcement efforts by the Assam Police against organised activities involving illegal cattle transportation.

The seizure of vehicles and arrests are expected to aid further investigation into the networks involved and establish the source and intended destination of the rescued cattle.

Sarma said the latest action underlined the government's determination to prevent cattle smuggling and ensure stronger enforcement across Assam.

The Chief Minister's statement also praised the coordinated police operation, signalling that enforcement agencies would continue to act against those found involved in cattle smuggling in the state.