Tension prevailed near the Bhatatira railway station level crossing under Sabarang police limits in Odisha’s Bhadrak district on Sunday after a group of agitated locals set a vehicle on fire over alleged illegal cattle transportation.
According to preliminary reports, a van carrying multiple cattle in cramped and distressing conditions was intercepted by residents while it was en route from Sabarang to Mirzapur. The animals were reportedly tied tightly inside the vehicle, raising strong suspicions of unlawful transport and possible trafficking.
Eyewitnesses said the situation escalated quickly after the vehicle was stopped, with locals expressing anger over the treatment of the animals. In the ensuing chaos, the crowd set the van ablaze at the spot. Before the incident, more than six cattle were successfully rescued from the vehicle.
The driver of the van fled the scene immediately following the confrontation, taking advantage of the unrest.
Fire services personnel arrived promptly and managed to douse the flames, preventing further damage. Meanwhile, Sabarang police have registered a case and initiated an investigation to ascertain the facts, identify those involved, and determine whether the transport violated animal welfare and transportation laws.
Authorities have urged the public to maintain calm and allow law enforcement to handle such situations through legal channels.
