BY TC News Desk
Agartala, August 23, 2023: The North district police administration is under scrutiny for alleged involvement in facilitating cow smuggling operations, as citizens continue to expose illicit activities. In the latest development, vigilant members of the public have handed over nine cows to the authorities.
Just 24 hours after the initial report, cow traders Bachu Mia and Sundar Mia were once again implicated in obstructing legitimate cattle trade. Concerned citizens took it upon themselves to intervene. Notably, on Tuesday lastmarked the market day of Ramnagar Bazar, a bustling market where cow smugglers are known to operate with impunity.
It is alleged that neighbouring Bangladesh plays a role in the illegal cattle trade, using operatives such as Sundar Mia from Kailashahar and Bachu Mia from Fatikroy as intermediaries. Acting on a tip from confidential sources, local law enforcement and BSF personnel intensified surveillance in various areas.
Their efforts led to the apprehension of Mithun Das, who was transporting nine cows in a multi-carriage vehicle to the residence of Kamal Uddin in the Chinnarakandi area of Uptakhali around 10:00 pm. Kamal Uddin, the homeowner, claimed ignorance of the cows in the vehicle as they belonged to his nephew, who occasionally parked a car there.
The mystery deepened when, at 9:00 am the following morning, the cows were discovered inside the Bolero car. Paplu Das, a resident of Ward No. 4 of Upthakhali Gram Panchayat, revealed that he refrained from purchasing a cow at Ramnagar market due to the inflated prices. His father, noticing the unusual number of cows next door, alerted Paplu. Upon investigation, Paplu confronted the driver, who identified himself as the owner of the cows. When asked for documentation of the purchase, the driver failed to produce any.
In a hasty retreat, the driver, identified as Mithun Das, absconded with the vehicle, leaving the cows behind. Local villagers, incensed by the attempted smuggling, sought help from the authorities. They promptly alerted the Panisagar police station, leading to the rescue of the stranded cows.
The situation in the North district is growing increasingly tense due to the actions of notorious cow traders Bachu Mia and Sundar Mia, who appear to be engaged in a power struggle with potentially dire consequences. However, the proactive response of concerned villagers against internal smuggling operations has earned commendation.
Villagers are calling for appropriate action against individuals suspected of aiding the cattle traders, including Mithun Das, Liton Das (alias Nantu), and Suman Das. This move by the community reflects a growing determination to combat corruption and illegal activities within the region. The authorities are under increasing pressure to address these concerns promptly and effectively.
