Cattle Smuggling Surge at India-Bangladesh Border: BSFI Intensifies Crackdown

In a sudden escalation, cattle smuggling activities intensified along the India-Bangladesh International Border, especially in areas adjacent to the border. The Border Security Force of India (BSFI) has stepped up its efforts in response to this growing challenge.

On January 15, 2024, a special operation by the BSFI’s 40-Battalion Mobile Check Post (MCP) party in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal led to a significant interception. The BSFI unit, acting on intelligence received, detected suspicious heavy truck movements on National Highway 31-D near Panikauri Toll Plaza, originating from the Fatapukur area.

Upon interception, BSFI personnel found five heavy trucks loaded with large numbers of buffalo. The drivers, unable to produce any legal documentation or satisfactory explanations for the cargo, were immediately detained. This operation led to the seizure of 240 buffalos, including eight deceased animals, and the confiscation of five trucks with registration numbers from Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Bihar. Additionally, 14 Indian nationals were apprehended, and items including mobile phones and Indian currency, totaling Rs. 60,240, were recovered.

Cattle Smuggling Jalpaiguri. Photo c/o Academia.edu

BSFI Sources

The BSFI sources revealed that those detained included individuals from various Indian states such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam. The total value of the seized items is estimated to be around Rs. 1.26 crore.

This incident is not isolated. Earlier, on January 8, BSFI had apprehended four individuals and seized a truck with 43 buffalos near Fulbari Toll Plaza, Darjeeling district. These consistent efforts reflect the BSFI’s commitment to curbing the menace of cattle smuggling across the border.

Local journalist and writer, Subir Bhaumik, commented on the situation, stating, “Cattle smuggling continues unabated, highlighting a serious cross-border issue.”

Additionally, on December 16, 2023, BSFI thwarted an attempt by cow smugglers in the Hatibandha area of Bangladesh’s Lalmonirhat district. In a dense fog, Bangladeshi smugglers attempting to cut the International Barbed Wire Border Fence were engaged by BSFI, resulting in injuries to three individuals.

These incidents underscore the ongoing challenges faced by border security forces in managing the complex issue of cattle smuggling across the India-Bangladesh border. The multi-state nature of this illegal activity poses significant enforcement and security challenges.

Information Source : Academia.edu

Cattle Smuggling 03 Jalpaiguri. Photo c/o Academia.edu