Puttur: Uppinangady Police Station personnel raided an illegal cockfighting event at Manikkala in Bajathur village on Tuesday evening and arrested three persons while seizing five roosters used in the fight.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Satish (38), a resident of Sabalooru in Koila village; Murali (30) from Kadambu in Vitla Padnoor village; and Monappa K (36), a resident of Kudatthadka in Valalu.
Raid conducted during routine patrol
The raid was carried out when police sub-inspector Suthesh KP and his team from Uppinangady Police Station were on routine patrol duty near Manikkala on Tuesday evening.
During the patrol, the officers reportedly heard the distinctive sounds of roosters coming from the roadside area. Suspecting illegal cockfighting activity, the police rushed to the location to verify the situation.
Upon reaching the spot, the police found that a cockfight was being organised, with several individuals gathered around to watch and participate in betting.
Crowd flees as police arrive
As soon as the police team moved in to intervene, a large crowd that had gathered at the site reportedly fled from the area to avoid being caught.
However, the officers managed to apprehend three individuals at the scene. The suspects were taken into custody and later formally arrested in connection with the illegal activity.
Illegal cockfighting events often attract groups of spectators and bettors, and such gatherings typically disperse quickly when police conduct raids.
Roosters, blades and cash seized
During the operation, police seized five roosters that were allegedly being used for cockfighting. Officers also recovered two sets of sharp blades, locally known as “baalu”, which are commonly tied to the legs of roosters during such fights.
In addition to the birds and blades, police seized ₹2,300 in cash believed to have been used for betting at the event.
Two plastic bags found at the scene were also taken into custody as part of the evidence. A motorcycle present at the location was seized by the police as well.
Organisers identified during questioning
During preliminary questioning, the arrested individuals reportedly told the police that the cockfighting event had been organised by two persons identified as Deranna and Umesh.
Based on the information obtained, police have registered a case against the organisers as well as the participants involved in conducting the illegal activity.
Officials said efforts are under way to trace the other individuals suspected of organising or participating in the event.
Illegal cockfighting and legal implications
Cockfighting is banned in many parts of India under laws related to animal cruelty and public gambling. Authorities periodically conduct raids to curb such activities, which are often associated with betting and organised gatherings.
Animal welfare advocates have long raised concerns over cockfighting, stating that the practice causes severe injuries and suffering to the birds involved.
Law enforcement agencies continue to monitor rural areas where such events are sometimes held secretly.
Investigation continues
Police said further investigation into the case is in progress to identify additional participants and organisers involved in the cockfighting event.
Officials added that strict action will be taken against those found violating laws related to animal cruelty and illegal betting.