Cattle Smuggler Injured in Encounter With Police in Odisha’s Keonjhar

Keonjhar: A suspected cattle smuggler was critically injured after a shootout with police in the Pandapada area on Saturday night. The individual sustained multiple gunshot wounds and is currently hospitalised in stable condition.

According to reports, a police team intercepted three vehicles suspected of transporting cattle illegally. Upon approaching the vehicles, the smugglers allegedly opened fire on the police, prompting retaliatory action.

This incident marks the latest confrontation between law enforcement and cattle smuggling syndicates in the region. A similar encounter occurred recently in the Jodiaghati area, where a police task force faced heavy gunfire from smugglers.

Cattle smuggling has emerged as a significant challenge in Odisha, with criminals forming organised gangs to transport animals illegally to neighbouring states, primarily West Bengal, and across the border to Bangladesh.

The use of firearms by these syndicates has escalated tensions and poses a serious threat. Authorities are stepping up efforts to dismantle these criminal networks and curb the illegal cattle trade.