Mangaluru: A case of cattle theft has been reported from the outskirts of the city after six cattle that were let out for grazing from the Kapila Goshala near Maravoor went missing, while the remains of one cow were later found at an unknown location. The incident has caused concern among local residents, goshalas and cattle rearers, highlighting ongoing worries about the safety of livestock in rural and semi-urban areas around Mangaluru.
Incident reported near Maravoor
According to preliminary information, the cattle belonged to the Kapila Goshala, a shelter that houses and cares for cows and other cattle. On the day of the incident, six cattle were reportedly let out for routine grazing in the nearby open areas, a common practice followed by many goshalas and farmers in the region. When the animals did not return, the staff of the goshala conducted a search but were unable to trace them.
Later, during the course of enquiries, the remains of one cow were found at an undisclosed location. The condition of the remains suggested foul play, raising suspicions of organised cattle theft. The discovery added to the seriousness of the incident and prompted the management of the goshala to approach the police.
Four cattle traced and abandoned
In a related development, four other cattle that had been tied within the cowshed premises of the Kapila Goshala were also found missing around the same time. These animals were later traced and found abandoned at an undisclosed spot. While the recovery of these cattle brought some relief, the circumstances under which they were abandoned have raised questions about the intentions of those involved.
Officials familiar with the matter said that the abandoned cattle appeared to have been left behind after the perpetrators possibly realised the risk of being caught or were unable to transport them further. The animals were subsequently brought back to safety.
Police register case, investigation underway
The local police have registered a case of cattle theft and have taken up an investigation. Officers have begun collecting statements from the staff of the Kapila Goshala, nearby residents and others who may have noticed suspicious movement in the area around the time of the incident.
Police sources said that teams are examining CCTV footage from nearby roads and establishments, wherever available, to identify possible vehicles or individuals involved. Efforts are also being made to trace the location where the remains of the cow were found, as this could provide crucial leads in the case.
Growing concern over cattle theft
Incidents of cattle theft have been reported from various parts of coastal Karnataka in recent years, causing distress among farmers, goshalas and cattle owners. Such thefts not only result in financial loss but also have emotional and cultural implications, particularly for institutions and individuals who consider cattle as part of their livelihood and faith.
Goshalas often rely on donations and community support to function, and incidents like this place an additional burden on their limited resources. The loss of cattle, especially through violent means, also raises concerns about animal welfare and the enforcement of existing laws meant to protect livestock.
Call for increased vigilance
Local residents and cattle rearers in and around Maravoor have urged the authorities to increase patrolling in vulnerable areas, especially during early morning and late-night hours. They have also called for better coordination between police, local administrations and community members to prevent such incidents.
Experts have suggested measures such as proper fencing of grazing areas, the use of identification tags for cattle and the installation of surveillance cameras near goshalas and common grazing routes. Awareness programmes for cattle owners on safety practices have also been recommended.
Conclusion
While the recovery of four cattle offers some consolation, the theft of six grazing cattle and the death of one cow have cast a shadow over the sense of security in the area. As the police investigation continues, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for sustained efforts to protect livestock and support institutions like goshalas that play a vital role in animal care. The outcome of the investigation is expected to determine accountability and, it is hoped, deter similar incidents in the future.