Bhatkal Cattle Theft Crisis Continues: Temple Cow Stolen, Caught on Camera

Residents of Bhatkal are once again facing concerns about the source of meat being sold in local markets, as cattle theft incidents continue to plague the town and surrounding areas. Despite Muslims in the community paying for meat purchases, doubts persist about whether the animals were obtained legally or through theft.

The latest incident came to light on Monday when security cameras captured thieves stealing a cow from the Chennapattana Anjaneya Temple compound. The brazen robbery has sparked fresh alarm among local residents.

According to available information, the theft occurred on Thursday when several unidentified individuals entered the temple courtyard. CCTV footage shows two to three people working together to forcibly lift a cow that was tied up on the premises. The thieves then loaded the animal into a luxury car and fled the scene.

The entire operation was clearly captured on surveillance cameras, providing crucial evidence for investigators.

This daring theft from a residential area and religious premises has created widespread concern among locals. Residents are now questioning the state of law and order in the region, with many expressing frustration over what they perceive as a lack of fear of legal consequences among criminals.

Using the CCTV footage, Bhatkal Town Police successfully traced and arrested two suspects along with the vehicle used in the crime. The arrested individuals have been identified as Faizan and Rehaan, both residents of Bhatkal. However, authorities believe more people are involved in this theft ring, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the full network behind these operations.

Several months ago, in response to increasing cattle theft cases, Majlis Islah wa Tanzeem one of the largest Muslim social bodies in the area launched a special campaign to identify cattle thieves and demand strict legal action against them. The group urged people not to purchase meat from suspicious sources.

Majlis Islah wa Tanzeem president Inayatullah Shabandri made it clear that Muslims do not consume meat from stolen animals, as it is considered haram (forbidden) in Islam. He called on the Superintendent of Police to expose the networks involved in cattle theft, take strict legal action against the criminals, and identify which meat dealers in Bhatkal are receiving stolen animals. The goal was to enable a social boycott of such traders.

Two to three months ago, representatives from Majlis Islah wa Tanzeem even caught two individuals red-handed while attempting to steal cattle and handed them over to police. They demanded harsh punishment for such thieves at the time.

However, the latest footage reveals that cattle theft continues unabated, with criminals seemingly operating without fear. Reports suggest that some individuals slaughter stolen animals and sell the meat in Dharwad and other locations. There are also allegations that stolen cattle meat is being passed off as wild game meat and sold to unsuspecting buyers at premium prices.

This deception has apparently emboldened the thieves further, as they profit from the crimes.

Following this recent incident, Majlis Islah wa Tanzeem has strongly condemned the theft and pressured the administration to take decisive legal action. The Tanzeem’s General Secretary Abdul Raqeeb MJ Nadvi explained that the lack of strict action has eliminated any fear of police or law among these criminals.

“These offenders must be dealt with firmly. The department should show no leniency and take the strictest possible action against them,” he stated.

With new footage surfacing, Bhatkal residents are once again worried about whether the meat they purchase and consume might actually come from stolen animals. The incident has reignited concerns about food safety and religious dietary compliance in the community.

Local authorities have assured the public that investigations are continuing and they are working to dismantle the theft networks operating in the area.