Assam: Rs 20 lakh extortion alleged as cattle truck stopped twice in Nalbari

Serious allegations of extortion and vigilantism have emerged in Nalbari district after a cattle-laden truck was allegedly intercepted and threatened late at night, with the accused reportedly demanding Rs 20 lakh from the vehicle’s occupants.

According to preliminary information, the incident took place despite the truck carrying valid government-issued challans for the transportation of cattle. The vehicle, transporting 13 cows from Bihar to Arunachal Pradesh, was allegedly stopped and harassed by a group of six to seven youths, who are accused of using the guise of cow protection to intimidate the driver and helpers.

The truck, bearing registration number WB 73 G-9907, was first intercepted near Tihu in Nalbari district. The youths allegedly arrived in two four-wheeler vehicles and blocked the truck’s path. During this initial confrontation, one of the vehicles involved, bearing registration number AS 01 FB-0115, reportedly met with an accident.

Sources further alleged that the cattle-laden truck was chased after being released from Tihu and was again forcibly stopped at Suradi along National Highway 27. At Suradi, another collision reportedly occurred between one of the four-wheeler vehicles and the truck, resulting in damage to the vehicle.

The entire sequence of events reportedly unfolded around 1:00 am, raising concerns over nighttime highway safety and the growing incidents of alleged vigilantism on major transport routes. The matter has sparked demands for strict action against those involved and for ensuring the safety of transporters operating with valid documentation.