Assam police arrest seven in Margherita over illegal beef trade

Acting on the directives of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who recently instructed law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts against the illegal beef trade, Margherita Police launched a major crackdown, arresting seven individuals, including a woman, from the Masjid Patti area late Monday evening.

The operation was spearheaded by Officer-in-Charge of Margherita Police Station, Protap Gogoi, who led the raid team that seized a consignment of illegally sourced beef and detained the accused on the spot. Police sources said that a case has been registered, and preparations are underway to produce the accused before a judicial magistrate.

While the identities of the arrested persons remain undisclosed, preliminary reports suggest they were involved in the illegal beef trade for an extended period. The crackdown aligns with the broader statewide enforcement drive against the unlawful slaughter, transportation, and sale of beef in violation of existing laws.

Tensions flared following the arrests as a crowd assembled outside the Margherita Police Station late at night, demanding the release of the detainees. However, police maintained order and confirmed that due legal procedures would be followed.

Meanwhile, right-wing organisations in Margherita have welcomed the police action, lauding the swift response in enforcing the Chief Minister’s directive and curbing illegal activities in the region.

The situation remains under control, with enhanced surveillance ordered in sensitive areas to prevent further unrest.