More than 1,000 cattle were reportedly intercepted in a late-night operation at Rangalu in Jakhalabandha, Nagaon district, police said, after officers conducting vehicle checks encountered a large convoy of cattle-laden trucks around midnight on Sunday. Jakhalabandha Police initially came upon more than 85 vehicles carrying cattle; several drivers abandoned their vehicles and a number of trucks fled the scene, according to officials.
During the operation, police seized 65 vehicles and brought them to the Jakhalabandha police station for further action. Each seized vehicle was reportedly carrying between 10 and 17 cattle, and many were Bolero pickups and Tata DI trucks loaded in overcrowded conditions. Local reports say several animals died in transit.
Information available to police indicates the animals were being moved from Upper Assam toward Rupohi in Nagaon district, but the exact total number of cattle involved has not been officially confirmed. Authorities described the transport as potentially illegal; investigations are under way to establish ownership, the legality of the movement and the identities of those responsible.
The operation sparked tension among nearby residents, who inspected several of the cattle-laden vehicles on site and voiced concerns about the animals’ welfare. Some locals alleged that a portion of the cattle might have been stolen and demanded prompt action against those involved in the transportation.
Questions have been raised about how the check was handled. Residents and witnesses reported that around five cattle-laden vehicles were allowed to leave during the operation and that several others managed to evade seizure before police secured the 65 vehicles now held at the station.
Police said further investigation will determine the provenance of the cattle, whether any criminal offences have been committed, and the next steps for those implicated. The probe is expected to include verification of ownership documents, veterinary checks for the animals, and legal action if wrongdoing is established.
