Cuttack: Police rescued over 500 cows worth around Rs 60 lakh from an illegal slaughterhouse operating in the dense jungle area of Tigiria, about 85 kilometres from Cuttack city, on Tuesday.
The operation, involving four police platoons, exposed a large-scale racket supplying beef across and beyond the state. Acting on credible intelligence, law enforcement officials raided the facility.
“This was a well-coordinated raid against a heinous act of animal cruelty and illegal trade,” said Cuttack Rural SP Prateek Singh. “We are committed to taking strict action against those involved in such activities,” he added.
According to police sources, the slaughterhouse had been operational for several months. “Preliminary investigation reveals each cow was being sold for Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000,” Singh said.
The rescued cattle have been transferred to a nearby animal shelter for care and rehabilitation. A case has been registered at Tigiria police station, with arrests expected soon.
Police are now investigating possible links to organized crime syndicates while working to identify the masterminds behind the operation. Authorities have promised stringent legal action to prevent similar illegal activities.