Patna: A crackdown on an alleged cattle-smuggling network in Munger has led to the arrest of four police personnel, including an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI), after investigators reportedly uncovered their links with smugglers through mobile phone and Call Detail Record (CDR) analysis.
The arrests followed an intelligence-led operation in which a truck carrying around 35 to 36 buffaloes was intercepted on the Munger-Jamalpur main road. The development has triggered a wider investigation into the alleged nexus between cattle smugglers and police personnel posted at different stations.
DIU intercepts truck carrying buffaloes
The case began with a tip-off received by the District Intelligence Unit (DIU). Acting on the information, a DIU team established a checkpoint near Bindwara Morh on the Munger-Jamalpur main road.
During the operation, police intercepted and searched a suspicious truck. Around 35 to 36 buffaloes were reportedly found packed inside the vehicle in an inhumane manner. Three suspected cattle smugglers were detained at the spot.
During questioning, the suspects reportedly told investigators that the cattle were being transported towards Khagaria.
CDR analysis points to alleged police-smuggler links
Following the seizure, investigators examined the mobile phones and CDRs of the detained suspects on the instructions of the Munger Superintendent of Police, Syed Imran Masood.
According to the police investigation, technical analysis revealed frequent communication between the suspected smugglers and certain police personnel. The investigation allegedly found contacts involving personnel posted at the Traffic Police Station, Mufassil Police Station and other locations.
Investigators also reportedly found evidence suggesting that location-related information was being shared with the smugglers.
Four police personnel arrested
After the alleged links emerged during the technical investigation, the SP ordered action against the police personnel identified during the probe.
Four police personnel, including an ASI, were subsequently arrested and sent to jail. The investigation has now been expanded to determine the extent of their alleged involvement in the cattle-smuggling network.
Probe widened to identify other links
The arrests have caused concern within the police department, with investigators now examining how long the alleged network had been operating and whether other police personnel were involved in facilitating the movement of cattle-laden vehicles.
Officials have said the investigation will continue and that further action will be taken against anyone found to be linked to the alleged smuggling network.
The case highlights the role of technical surveillance and CDR analysis in uncovering alleged criminal-police links, while the investigation will determine the full extent of the network and the allegations against those arrested.
