South Salmara–Mankachar turns into ‘syndicate corridor’, cattle smuggling soars

Serious allegations have surfaced suggesting that South Salmara–Mankachar district has turned into a major “syndicate corridor,” with large-scale cattle smuggling operations allegedly flourishing unchecked along the Indo–Bangladesh border. The district administration and police are now facing sharp scrutiny over their alleged inaction.

According to credible local sources, a well-organised network of brokers is reportedly orchestrating the smuggling of hundreds of cattle into Bangladesh every day. The operation is said to be so rampant and systematic that cattle are openly transported across the porous border using the Brahmaputra river routes, particularly from areas such as Fakirganj, South Salmara, and Sukhchar.

Despite the scale and visibility of the smuggling network, allegations point to a “mysterious silence” on the part of certain police officials. Locals claim that while boats carrying cattle cross the river in full public view, only a few selective officials remain present — often as “mute spectators” — raising troubling questions about possible collusion.

The financial magnitude of the illegal trade is equally staggering. Sources estimate that the syndicate collects approximately ₹4,000 per pair of smuggled cattle. With 300–400 cattle reportedly trafficked each week, the weekly turnover is believed to range between ₹12 lakh and ₹16 lakh, potentially reaching ₹50–60 lakh per month.

At the centre of this alleged network is a powerful gang of middlemen, led by a “notorious broker” who, according to insiders, enjoys strong connections with certain police personnel. The same broker is also alleged to operate under the patronage of an influential political figure within the district, enabling the syndicate to function with impunity.

The consequences of the smuggling network have spilled over into the agricultural sector. Farmers in the char areas (river islands) report that large herds of smuggled cattle trample and destroy their fields while being driven toward the border, causing widespread crop damage and economic loss.

Meanwhile, district police officials have maintained complete silence on the allegations. Residents and local observers describe the inaction as “deeply suspicious,” claiming it has emboldened the syndicate to expand its operations and “control everything in exchange for money.”