By TC News Desk
Agartala, 1st April 2024: The head of Phulbari Kandi Gram Panchayat Sundar Mia in Kailashahar, has been arrested by police personnel on charges related to his alleged involvement in a buffalo smuggling operation. Mia’s arrest comes amidst mounting complaints of livestock theft plaguing the region, particularly in the corridors of Dharmanagar and Kailashahar.
Reports suggest that Mia had long been suspected of orchestrating illegal activities, including cow and buffalo smuggling, which have troubled the local populace for an extended period. It was only after intensified pressure from residents and a comprehensive investigation by the police that Mia was taken into custody.
The breakthrough in the case came following the arrest of Liton Das, also known as Nantu, from his residence in Ramnagar Gram Panchayat under Panisagar sub-division. Das’s detention led authorities to Mia, the alleged mastermind behind the smuggling ring.
Legal proceedings have swiftly commenced, with Mia facing a slew of charges under Sections 120 B, 382 F, 353, and 34 of the Indian Penal Code, along with violations of the Animal Protection Act and damage to public property. He has been remanded to judicial custody until April 2.
The pivotal moment in the investigation occurred on March 24 when Das was intercepted attempting to transport nine buffaloes in two pickup trucks near the vicinity of the Anandabazar SPO camp in Dharmanagar. Mia’s subsequent arrest marked a significant milestone in law enforcement’s efforts to dismantle the illicit network.
Authorities express optimism regarding further breakthroughs in the case, anticipating that Mia’s interrogation will yield vital information leading to the apprehension of other suspects involved in the smuggling operation.
