Puttur: Puttur town police on Sunday rescued three cattle allegedly being transported illegally for slaughter and arrested the driver of the pick-up vehicle in Chikkamudnoor village.
Acting on a tip-off, police intercepted the vehicle at Jidekallu while it was travelling from Anadka towards Padil. During the inspection, officers reportedly found three cattle tied inside the vehicle in an alleged cruel manner.
The police subsequently seized the vehicle and rescued the cattle.
Driver arrested
The arrested driver has been identified as Mohammed Jabbar.
During preliminary questioning, Jabbar reportedly told the police that he had purchased the cattle from a person named Ashok from Shanthigodu village.
Police said the cattle were allegedly being transported for slaughter without the required permits and documentation.
Following the interception, Jabbar was taken into custody for questioning, while the cattle and vehicle were seized as part of the investigation.
Case registered under multiple laws
Puttur town police have registered a case under provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Act, 2020.
Relevant provisions of the Indian Motor Vehicles Act have also been invoked in connection with the transportation of the cattle.
The police are examining the circumstances under which the cattle were purchased and transported and whether other individuals were involved in the alleged illegal transportation.
The manner in which the cattle were allegedly confined inside the vehicle is also part of the investigation.
Investigation underway
Police said further investigation is underway to establish the complete sequence of events and verify the details provided during questioning.
The authorities are also expected to examine the ownership and documentation relating to the cattle and vehicle.
The seizure followed information received by the police about the alleged illegal transportation, highlighting the role of tip-offs and checks in preventing unlawful movement of cattle.
The rescued cattle have been taken into the custody of the authorities as per procedure.
Police have continued their investigation into the alleged violation of animal protection and cattle preservation laws.