Odisha Police Intensifies Action Against Illegal Cattle Smuggling with 32 Raids
Synopsis
The Odisha Police has launched a major operation against illegal cattle smuggling, conducting coordinated raids at 32 locations and seizing substantial assets, including cash and weapons. This effort reflects the government's commitment to tackling organized crime in the state.
Key Takeaways
Odisha Police conducted raids at 32 locations linked to illegal cattle smuggling.
18 platoons of police were engaged in the operation.
Over Rs 50 lakh, along with gold and silver, were seized.
Raids resulted in multiple detentions across three districts.
The crackdown reflects an intensified focus on organized crime by the state government.
Bhubaneswar, April 7 (NationPress) On Tuesday, the Odisha Police executed coordinated raids across various sites associated with individuals suspected of engaging in the illegal cattle smuggling network throughout the state.
During a press briefing, Pinak Mishra, the Deputy Inspector General of Police (Eastern Range), Balasore, stated, “Today, we are conducting searches at approximately 32 locations. These sites were pinpointed through investigations into parties involved in the organized cattle transport operations, which have persisted for several years.”
Mishra further disclosed that the extensive search operations in Balasore, Bhadrak, and Mayurbhanj districts have mobilized 18 platoons of police personnel, including eight Additional Superintendents of Police, 17 officers of Deputy SP rank, 25 inspectors, and 67 officers at the Sub-Inspector/Assistant Sub-Inspector levels.
He explained that these raids stem from intelligence gathered following a comprehensive review of multiple cases concerning illegal cattle transportation reported in the three districts recently. The police have already confiscated over Rs 50 lakh in cash, a substantial amount of gold and silver jewelry, and several vehicles associated with the illegal cattle transport.
“Additionally, we have seized various firearms and other lethal weapons during these operations, underscoring that illegal cattle transportation is being conducted as an organized crime. I want to emphasize that we maintain a zero-tolerance stance against illegal cattle smuggling. This operation is being executed in accordance with directives from the state government and the Director General of Police of Odisha,” the DIGP elaborated.
He informed the media that approximately six individuals have been apprehended in Bhadrak, while around four individuals each have been detained in Balasore and Mayurbhanj districts.
Significantly, the crackdown on illegal cattle transportation in Odisha has intensified since the BJP government took office. Reports indicate that 473 cases of illegal cattle transportation were recorded in 2023, increasing to 533 in 2024 and further escalating to 872 in 2025.
Point of View
I observe this significant law enforcement action in Odisha as a vital step towards dismantling organized crime networks. The government's strong stance reflects a commitment to uphold the rule of law and protect livestock welfare, which is crucial for both economic and ethical reasons.
NationPress
10 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the recent raids by the Odisha Police?
The raids were initiated based on intelligence gathered from ongoing investigations into illegal cattle transportation activities linked to organized crime.
How many locations were raided?
The police conducted raids at approximately 32 identified locations associated with illegal cattle smuggling.
What items were seized during the raids?
The police seized over Rs 50 lakh in cash, a significant amount of gold and silver ornaments, vehicles used in the illegal trade, and various firearms.
How many individuals were detained?
Around 14 individuals were detained across Bhadrak, Balasore, and Mayurbhanj districts during the operation.
What has been the trend in illegal cattle transportation cases?
There has been a noticeable increase in cases of illegal cattle transportation, with registrations rising from 473 in 2023 to 872 in 2025.
