Patna, Aug 8 (IANS) In a major crackdown on an alleged cattle smuggling network, Munger police have arrested four of their own personnel, including a Sub‑Inspector (SI), for allegedly colluding with smugglers and facilitating the movement of vehicles carrying cattle across the district.
The action was taken on the instructions of Superintendent of Police (SP) Syed Imran Masood after an investigation allegedly uncovered links between police personnel and members of the smuggling network.
The case came to light after the District Intelligence Unit (DIU) received information about a suspicious vehicle transporting cattle.
A DIU team set up a checkpoint near Bindwara Morh on the Munger-Jamalpur main road and intercepted a truck.
During a search, police reportedly found around 35 to 36 buffaloes being transported in cramped and allegedly inhumane conditions. Three suspected smugglers were detained from the vehicle.
During questioning, they reportedly told investigators that the cattle were being transported to Khagaria.
Following the arrests, police examined the suspects’ mobile phones and Call Detail Records (CDRs) as part of a detailed investigation ordered by the SP.
The technical analysis allegedly revealed regular communication between the suspected smugglers and four police personnel. Investigators found that the personnel were allegedly sharing location information and helping the smugglers move their vehicles safely through the district.
The four accused police personnel were posted at the Traffic Police Station, Mufassil Police Station and other police units. One of them is a Sub‑Inspector.
Acting on the findings, SP Syed Imran Masood ordered the arrest of all four personnel. They were subsequently taken into custody and sent to jail.
The arrests have caused considerable concern within the Munger police department and raised questions about the alleged operation of the smuggling network under police protection.
Investigators are now examining how long the alleged network had been operating, whether other police personnel were involved, and the extent of the illegal activities.
Officials said the investigation has been expanded and that strict action will be taken against anyone found involved in the cattle smuggling racket, regardless of their position.
–IANS
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