A suspected cow thief, identified as Azarul Islam, sustained bullet injuries in a dramatic shootout with police in Hojai district of Assam on Saturday. The encounter unfolded during a police operation targeting a gang of cow thieves, creating tension in the area.
The operation, conducted in Lanka’s Udali, followed intelligence reports of a gang using a luxury four-wheeler for cow theft. While Islam was apprehended with injuries, three of his accomplices managed to escape.
Details of the Incident
The police acted on a tip-off about a gang actively involved in cow theft in the Lanka region. Setting up a barricade at Sankardev Nagar Police Outpost, they attempted to intercept the gang’s vehicle.
- Chase and Shootout: Upon spotting the police, the gang ignored orders to stop and tried to break through the barricade. During the ensuing chase, the suspects veered off into nearby fields, engaging in a gunfight with the police.
- Injuries Reported: The police retaliated, injuring Azarul Islam. One police personnel was also injured in the crossfire.
Seizures and Evidence
The police seized the following items from the incident site:
- Weapons: A 0.765 mm pistol, two live bullets, and two empty cartridges.
- Vehicle: A Maruti Swift (Registration Number: AS 01 GD-6020).
- Livestock: One cow recovered from the vehicle.
These items are critical in building a case against the gang and tracing their criminal activities in the region.
Gang Members Still at Large
While Azarul Islam was apprehended and admitted to the Nagaon Civil Hospital for treatment, three gang members fled the scene. Police are conducting a search operation to track down the absconding suspects.
Rising Concern Over Cow Theft
The incident highlights an alarming rise in cow thefts in and around Lanka over the past week. The increasing frequency of such crimes has caused panic among locals, prompting them to demand stricter action from law enforcement.
Key Details of the Incident
| Aspect | Details |
| Location | Lanka’s Udali, Hojai District, Assam |
| Date and Time | December 7, 2024, around evening |
| Suspect Injured | Azarul Islam (Resident of Rupahi, Nagaon) |
| Accomplices | Three suspects fled |
| Police Injuries | One police personnel injured |
| Items Seized | 0.765 mm pistol, live bullets, empty cartridges, a cow, Maruti Swift car |
| Vehicle Details | Maruti Swift (Registration Number: AS 01 GD-6020) |
| Operation Status | Injured suspect in custody, search for others ongoing |
Local Reaction
Residents of Lanka and nearby areas have expressed growing concerns over the security situation. With multiple incidents of cow theft reported in recent weeks, locals are urging authorities to intensify patrols and enforce stricter penalties to deter criminal activities.
One resident said, “Cow thefts have been on the rise, and it’s becoming a major problem. We need the police to take stronger actions to ensure safety in our villages.”
Police Response and Investigation
The police have assured the public that steps are being taken to curb such crimes. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the gang’s operations and their network in the region.
A senior police officer remarked, “This incident is a reminder of the challenges faced in combating organized crime. Our priority is to apprehend the remaining suspects and prevent such activities in the future.”
Broader Implications
The incident sheds light on the illegal cattle trade prevalent in parts of Assam. The use of high-end vehicles like a luxury Maruti Swift and firearms suggests a more organized and financially backed operation than typical cattle thefts.
Law enforcement agencies are considering deploying additional resources and technology, including surveillance cameras and vehicle tracking systems, to combat these criminal networks.
Conclusion
The shootout in Hojai’s Lanka is a stark reminder of the growing complexities in rural crimes like cattle theft. While the swift action by police prevented further harm, the escape of three suspects underscores the need for improved coordination and preparedness in tackling such incidents.
As the search operation continues, law enforcement and locals hope for a resolution that will restore safety and trust in the region.
Disclaimer
This article is based on reports and information obtained from reliable sources. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, details are subject to updates as the investigation progresses. This report is intended for informational purposes only, and the publisher is not responsible for any discrepancies or changes in the facts.
