Mangaluru: The Punjalkatte police have registered a case related to the illegal transportation of cattle and, following due legal procedure, have seized a residential house along with an adjoining cattle shed in Bantwal taluk of Dakshina Kannada district. The action was taken after police intercepted a goods auto allegedly carrying cattle without valid permits, intended for slaughter.
According to the police, the incident came to light on the evening of December 13, when officers received specific information about illegal cattle transportation on the Maninalkuru–Tekkaru Road in Uli village, Bantwal taluk. Acting swiftly on the tip-off, the Police Sub-Inspector of Punjalkatte Police Station, along with station staff, proceeded to the location to verify the information.
Police intercept goods auto in Uli village
Police officials said that the team intercepted a goods auto travelling on the Maninalkuru–Tekkaru Road and conducted a thorough inspection of the vehicle. During the inspection, one cattle was found tied with a rope inside the vehicle in what the police described as a cruel and improper manner.
The vehicle was immediately stopped, and the driver was questioned at the spot. He was later identified as Sridhara Poojary (56), a resident of Maninalkuru village in Bantwal taluk.
Cattle allegedly transported without permits
During questioning, police said the driver failed to produce any valid documents or permits for transporting the cattle. Further inquiry revealed that the animal had allegedly been transported from the house of Bhoja Mulya, a resident of Sarapadi in Bantwal, without authorisation.
Preliminary investigation suggested that the cattle was being transported with the intention of slaughtering it for meat, which is a violation of the Karnataka Prevention of Cow Slaughter and Cattle Preservation Act, 2020.
Seizure of cattle, vehicle and mobile phone
For the purpose of further legal proceedings, the police seized the cattle, the goods auto used for transportation, and a mobile phone believed to be connected to the offence. The rescued cattle was taken into safe custody as per established procedures.
Police officials stated that the seizure was carried out in accordance with the law and proper documentation was prepared at the spot.
Case registered under Cow Slaughter Act
A case has been registered at the Punjalkatte Police Station under Sections 5, 7 and 12 of the Karnataka Prevention of Cow Slaughter and Cattle Preservation Act, 2020. In addition, Section 11(1)(d) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act has also been invoked, citing the manner in which the cattle was transported.
Police said these sections deal with illegal transportation, slaughter of cattle without authorisation, and subjecting animals to cruelty.
House and cattle shed seized following legal procedure
Meanwhile, as part of the ongoing legal action, police have also seized the house of the accused Bhoja Mulya, along with the adjoining cattle shed and premises at Sarapadi, Bantwal. Officials said the seizure was carried out following due legal process as mandated under the relevant laws.
The move, police noted, is aimed at preventing the recurrence of such offences and ensuring strict enforcement of cattle protection laws in the district.
Further investigation underway
Police officials confirmed that further investigation in the case is underway to ascertain the involvement of other individuals, if any, and to verify whether similar activities had taken place earlier. Authorities are also examining the seized mobile phone and vehicle as part of the probe.
Conclusion
The case highlights continued enforcement efforts by the Dakshina Kannada police to curb illegal cattle transportation and violations of animal welfare laws. Officials reiterated that strict action will be taken against anyone found involved in offences related to illegal cattle slaughter or cruelty to animals, in accordance with the law.