MANGALURU: Mangaluru city police have warned individuals and vigilante groups against intercepting vehicles transporting legally sourced meat, stating that obstructing lawful activities, threatening people or attacking them could attract severe legal consequences.
The warning came after a social media post by the Bajrang Dal alleged that illegal cattle transport was taking place between Talapady and Jokatte and accused Kankanady police of ignoring the information shared with them.
Police clarified that the vehicle mentioned in the post was not carrying live cattle for slaughter. Instead, it was transporting meat legally purchased in Kerala to a licensed shop in Mangaluru.
Police verify meat transport documents
According to the police, officials examined the information concerning the vehicle and verified that the meat had been legally sourced and transported. The clarification was issued to counter allegations circulating on social media about the movement of cattle.
Police reiterated that they would take action against illegal cattle transport and cow slaughter. They also urged members of the public to report suspected violations directly to the authorities rather than attempting to stop vehicles themselves.
The police underlined the distinction between illegal cattle-related activities and the lawful transportation and sale of meat. While cow slaughter is prohibited under Karnataka law, legally sourced meat can be transported and sold in accordance with applicable regulations.
Warning against taking the law into one’s own hands
The police cautioned that stopping vehicles engaged in legally permitted activities, assaulting people or intimidating them could itself constitute a criminal offence. The statement warned that such conduct could carry punishment of up to 10 years in prison, depending on the applicable legal provisions and circumstances.
The warning comes amid allegations on social media about the movement of cattle and meat within the region. Police said that complaints about suspected illegal activity should be brought to their attention so that they can verify the facts and take appropriate action.
Authorities have stressed that individuals and groups cannot assume the role of law enforcement or use allegations as a justification to obstruct lawful transport.
Complaint received over alleged interception attempt
Mangaluru city police also disclosed that they had received a complaint about an alleged attempt by certain individuals to intercept the meat transport vehicle on Monday morning.
Police said a case would be registered if the allegations were found to be true. The statement did not confirm that a case had already been registered or that anyone had been arrested in connection with the alleged incident.
The authorities reiterated that they would investigate complaints relating to illegal cattle transport while also acting against unlawful interference with permitted activities.
The police have urged the public to report suspected offences through official channels and allow authorities to investigate them. The warning serves as a reminder that concerns about illegal activity must be addressed through the law, and that attempts to stop vehicles or threaten individuals can also have legal consequences.
The investigation into the reported interception attempt will determine whether further action is warranted.