Hebri: Police have arrested two persons in connection with a cattle theft and killing case registered at the Hebri police station, following a swift operation carried out near the Ganjimath bus stop at Moodutheraru village in Mangaluru. The arrests were made as part of intensified surveillance and enforcement against cattle-related offences in the region.
The accused have been identified as Wasim Akram (32) and Saifan Mukthasar, both residents of Kemmannu Hoode in Udupi district. Police said the duo were apprehended based on credible information and preliminary investigation linking them to the alleged offence.
Arrest following investigation
According to police sources, a case of cattle theft and killing had been registered at the Hebri police station after a complaint was received regarding the illegal theft and killing of cattle in the area. The incident had triggered concern among local residents, prompting the police to step up patrolling and intelligence gathering.
Acting on specific inputs, a police team traced the movements of the suspects and intercepted them near the Ganjimath bus stop at Moodutheraru village in Mangaluru. The accused were detained for questioning, during which their alleged involvement in the offence came to light.
Following their detention, police formally arrested both accused and registered cases against them under relevant legal provisions.
Cases registered under multiple Acts
The police have booked the accused under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with the Prevention of Cow Slaughter Act and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. These sections pertain to illegal cattle slaughter, theft and acts causing cruelty to animals.
Officials said the inclusion of multiple sections reflects the seriousness of the offence and the legal framework in place to prevent such crimes. “Cattle theft and killing are not only criminal offences but also issues that affect social harmony and animal welfare. Such cases will be dealt with strictly,” a police officer said.
The police are also examining whether the accused are linked to any larger network involved in similar activities across districts.
Produced before court
After completing the initial formalities, the accused were produced before the jurisdictional court. The court proceedings will determine further custodial requirements and the course of investigation.
Police officials stated that further inquiries are under way to ascertain the source and intended use of the cattle, as well as to identify whether any other individuals were involved in the alleged crime. Efforts are also being made to verify if similar offences have been committed by the accused in the past.
Police appeal for public cooperation
The police have appealed to the public to cooperate by promptly reporting any suspicious movement of cattle vehicles or instances of illegal transportation, theft or cruelty to animals. Timely information from residents, officials said, plays a crucial role in preventing such offences and ensuring swift action.
Senior officers reiterated that strict enforcement would continue in rural and semi-urban areas to curb cattle-related crimes and uphold the law. Increased night patrols and vehicle checks have been planned in sensitive locations as part of preventive measures.
Conclusion
The arrest of the two accused in the cattle theft and killing case highlights the police department’s continued efforts to act against offences involving animals and to maintain law and order in the region. With the case now before the court, authorities have assured that the investigation will be carried out thoroughly and in accordance with the law, sending a clear message that such crimes will not be tolerated.