Four arrested for beef trade in Phagwara

Four persons arrested under relevant provisions of cow slaughter prohibition and food safety laws after police uncovered an alleged illegal cow meat processing and distribution operation near Phagwara. The action followed specific intelligence received by Goraya police leading to the registration of a formal case and the arrest of four individuals involved in the alleged racket.

DSP Phillaur Bharat Masih, while confirming it told this correspondent that the case was initiated on the complaint of a local resident, Harish Bhalla, of Sarafa Bazaar, Phagwara. Acting on the information provided, law enforcement authorities conducted a targeted operation on the road leading from Dusanjh Kalan towards Kale Pind, near village Kot Grewal. During the operation, officials reportedly discovered that cow meat was being sold from a concealed shed structure situated near a brick kiln. Investigators further alleged that ghee was being prepared from cow fat and supplied to different locations.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Suleman alias Sultan, a resident of Churamba in Munger district of Bihar; Avtar Chand alias Bhagwan of Kot Grewal; Bilal of Kund Kala in Saharanpur district, Uttar Pradesh; and Amjad of Ali Chungi, also in Saharanpur district, Uttar Pradesh. Police confirmed that all four accused are currently in custoday.

Cops also seized a Tata Ace vehicle bearing registration number PB-09-S-0153, which was allegedly being used to transport and distribute the contraband. The vehicle reportedly carried markings suggesting it was a cattle transport vehicle associated with a cow shelter, but investigators allege it was being misused for the sale and supply of cow meat at various locations.