BSF Meghalaya Foils Cattle Smuggling Bid; 76 Cattle Rescued, 7 Smugglers Nabbed

In a significant crackdown on cross-border crime, the Border Security Force (BSF) Meghalaya, in coordination with the Meghalaya Police, thwarted a major cattle smuggling attempt along the Indo-Bangladesh border. A total of 76 cattle—43 alive and 33 dead—were rescued in a joint operation launched on the basis of a specific intelligence input.

The operation was carried out by the vigilant troops of the 22nd Battalion BSF, who observed suspicious movement of vehicles during a routine border patrol. Acting swiftly, the BSF alerted the local police and intercepted five pickup trucks ferrying the cattle in highly inhumane and unhygienic conditions.

Seven Indian nationals involved in the illegal transportation were apprehended on the spot. According to BSF officials, one of the suspects sustained minor injuries after falling down in fear during the apprehension. He was promptly evacuated to a nearby hospital, accompanied by a BSF representative.

The seizure included not just the cattle but also five vehicles used in the smuggling operation and three walkie-talkie sets. The recovery of wireless communication devices points towards a coordinated and organized smuggling network operating in the region. BSF officials noted that the movement of the vehicles was well-planned, with the trucks arriving in phases—two initially, followed by the remaining—clearly suggesting a structured strategy to evade detection.

During preliminary interrogation, the apprehended individuals failed to produce any valid documents related to the ownership or lawful transport of the cattle. Authorities also noted the absence of any recognized Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) involvement at the scene, raising further concerns over the cruelty inflicted on the animals.

All seized items, along with the accused, have been handed over to the local police for further investigation and legal action.

A BSF spokesperson stated that the operation underscores BSF Meghalaya’s unwavering commitment to curbing trans-border crimes and maintaining the sanctity of the nation’s borders. The force reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring national security and preventing illegal activities along the sensitive border regions.

The BSF are now probing deeper into the network to identify other individuals and possible cross-border links involved in the racket.

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