Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, June 6: A major buffalo smuggling attempt was foiled by vigilant locals on the Chambe Da Bagh Expressway in Kathua district, leading to the rescue of 12 buffaloes and the arrest of one accused, while another managed to escape before police reached the spot.
According to local residents, two suspects were found transporting buffaloes under suspicious circumstances. Acting swiftly, locals intercepted them and informed the police. However, before the arrival of the police team, one of the accused fled from the scene, while the second suspect was caught and later taken into custody.
Residents alleged that several incidents of cattle theft have taken place in the area in recent days. They claimed that on the day of Eid, buffalo belonging to Mohinder Singh was stolen, while another buffalo owned by Ashwani Singh was also allegedly taken away by thieves.
Locals said they had earlier alerted the police administration and requested strict surveillance on suspected elements involved in cattle theft. They expressed the belief that such crimes are not the work of a single individual but are carried out by organized groups that steal cows and buffaloes during the night and transport them further.
The residents demanded that the police not only identify and expose all those involved in the racket but also recover the animals stolen in previous incidents. They urged the administration to take stringent action against cattle smugglers and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
Local residents praised the timely intervention of the public, stating that their vigilance helped prevent another case of illegal cattle smuggling and protected valuable livestock.
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