Police in Assam’s Bongaigaon district seized 23 cattle during a joint operation targeting suspected illegal transportation, officials said Thursday. The raid was conducted at the residence of alleged smuggler Mannat Ali in Bartari, a sensitive border area between Bongaigaon and Barpeta districts. Teams from Abhayapuri and Mererchar police stations, supervised by the Sub-Divisional Police Officer of Abhayapuri, recovered the animals, which were suspected to have been moved in violation of regulations. The cattle were taken into custody and shifted to Abhayapuri Police Station.
Authorities have launched a detailed investigation to trace the source and intended destination of the cattle, probing whether an organized smuggling network is involved. No arrests have been confirmed yet. The Goria-Moria-Deshi National Council raised concerns about persistent illegal activities in the region, alleging that cattle smuggling and illicit timber trade have long plagued Bongaigaon. The council urged stricter enforcement and coordinated action among agencies, while police reiterated their commitment to regular operations against smuggling and related offences.