Beltangady: In a major crackdown on illegal cattle slaughter, the Beltangady police raided a clandestine slaughterhouse in Kuvettu village and seized nine severed cattle heads, along with various tools used for butchering. The raid was conducted on specific information received by inspector Subbapur Math and documented in the presence of veterinarians from the local animal husbandry department.
Raid at Pilichandikallu in Kuvettu village
The operation took place at Pilichandikallu in Kuvettu village, Beltangady taluk, at the residence of Mohammed Rafiq alias Appi. Police sources confirmed that information had been received indicating that stolen cattle were being transported to the location and slaughtered for meat.
Following the credible tip-off, the police secured a search warrant from higher authorities before proceeding with the raid. The officers discovered evidence of ongoing slaughter, including nine severed cattle heads, and other incriminating materials on the premises.
Items seized during operation
During the raid, the police recovered three knives, two wooden-handled daggers, a wooden log, a blue tarpaulin, and one electronic weighing machine suspected to have been used for weighing meat. Additionally, a live cow and a calf were rescued from the site.
An Omni van filled with cattle waste was also seized, suggesting large-scale activity had taken place at the spot. The findings confirmed suspicions that the premises were being regularly used for illegal cattle slaughter operations.
Accused flee during police action
The accused, including the prime suspect Mohammed Rafiq alias Appi, managed to escape when the raid was carried out. Police revealed that Rafiq had been warned several times earlier for similar activities but continued to engage in cattle slaughter despite repeated caution.
According to sources, the raid was a culmination of ongoing monitoring by local authorities who had received multiple complaints about cattle being stolen and slaughtered in the area.
Police team leads the operation
The successful raid was carried out under the leadership of Beltangady police inspector Subbapur Math, along with sub-inspector Yallappa H Madar, staff members Srinivas, Satish, Jagadish, and driver Dharesh. The team executed the search and recovery operations meticulously, ensuring veterinary officers were present to record and verify the findings.
The documented evidence is expected to play a crucial role in the legal proceedings that will follow. The police have registered a case and are continuing efforts to trace and apprehend the absconding accused.
Background of illegal cattle slaughter in the region
Illegal cattle slaughter has been a recurring issue in various parts of Karnataka, including Dakshina Kannada district. Despite repeated police crackdowns and awareness campaigns, several individuals continue to engage in the activity, often linked with cattle theft and unregulated meat trade.
Authorities have noted that such activities not only violate laws protecting cattle but also raise concerns regarding hygiene, public health, and communal tensions. This latest raid has once again highlighted the persistence of the problem in rural pockets like Kuvettu village.
Next steps by authorities
Following the raid, police are expected to intensify surveillance in and around Beltangady taluk to deter further incidents. The animal husbandry department is also likely to remain involved in monitoring such cases, ensuring proper documentation and handling of rescued cattle.
Police sources indicated that legal action under provisions related to illegal cattle slaughter, theft, and cruelty to animals will be pursued against the accused. Efforts are being made to track down Mohammed Rafiq alias Appi and others who fled the scene.
Conclusion
The Beltangady raid has sent a strong message against illegal cattle slaughter in the region. By seizing evidence and documenting the findings with the help of veterinary experts, the police have strengthened the case against the accused. The next phase will involve legal proceedings and continued vigilance to curb such unlawful practices.