Udupi: Hiriyadka police arrested two persons for allegedly transporting cattle illegally in a goods vehicle near the Pakkalu Hebbaru bridge area in Hiriyadka.
The arrested accused have been identified as Suhas and Lava Shetty.
According to police, the accused were transporting four cattle in a tempo goods vehicle from Perdoor towards Hiriyadka when the incident occurred. Authorities suspect that the cattle were allegedly being transported illegally for slaughter at an abattoir.
Vehicle loses control near bridge
Police said the driver reportedly lost control of the goods vehicle near the Pakkalu Hebbaru bridge area, causing the tempo to veer off the road and fall into a roadside drain.
The accident attracted the attention of local residents and police personnel in the area. During the inspection of the vehicle, officials found four cattle being transported inside the tempo.
Authorities subsequently rescued the animals and detained the accused at the spot.
Cattle seized by police
Following the incident, Hiriyadka police seized the cattle and took the accused into custody for allegedly violating laws related to illegal cattle transportation.
Officials stated that further investigation is underway to determine whether the accused possessed valid permits and complied with transportation regulations.
The rescued cattle were shifted to safety following the seizure.
Case registered at Hiriyadka police station
Police confirmed that a case has been registered at Hiriyadka Police Station in connection with the incident.
Authorities are continuing the investigation to verify additional details regarding the transportation route, destination, and ownership of the cattle.
Police have also warned that strict action will be taken against those involved in illegal transportation and cruelty towards animals.
Police intensify checks on illegal transport
Officials stated that vehicle inspections and monitoring have been intensified in several parts of the district to prevent illegal cattle transport activities.
Authorities appealed to the public to report any suspicious transportation of animals or violations of livestock transportation laws to the nearest police station.
The incident once again highlights ongoing concerns regarding illegal cattle transport cases reported in different parts of coastal Karnataka.