The Keonjhar Special Squad Team intercepted two pickup vans and a car near Tukuna Hata under Ghasipura police limits, rescuing 174 cattle that were allegedly being smuggled.
Acting on a tip-off, authorities detained eleven individuals suspected to be involved in the operation. The detainees are currently being interrogated to uncover the broader network behind the smuggling ring.
In a separate incident, Bhadrak Rural Police seized a pickup van carrying beef near a key junction on National Highway No. 16. Four more suspects were taken into custody and are being questioned in connection with the illegal trade.
Officials have reiterated their commitment to curbing cattle smuggling and ensuring strict enforcement of animal protection laws across the state.