Three Arrested in Bhatkal for Smuggling Camels in Cruel Conditions
Police intercepted a goods truck carrying eight camels without permits, food, or water.
Bhatkal Rural Police have arrested three men after catching them transporting eight camels under distressing conditions, allegedly without any legal authorization to do so.
The three accused have been named as Karan Babar, 26, from Madhya Pradesh, and two Maharashtra residents, Suhas Suryavanshi, 22, and Yash Gotakinde, 19, both from Shirod in Kolhapur district.
The camels, estimated to be worth around Rs 3.75 lakh in total, were being moved in a goods vehicle from Maharashtra toward Mangaluru. Police say the animals were tied up in a cruel manner throughout the journey and had been given neither food nor water.
Authorities noted that none of the three men carried valid permits or any official clearance from the relevant authorities for transporting livestock, putting them in direct violation of animal transport regulations.
Acting on a tip-off, Bhatkal Rural Police stopped the truck and carried out an inspection, which quickly revealed the unlawful nature of the operation. The vehicle and all eight camels were seized on the spot, and the trio was taken into custody shortly after.
A formal case has now been registered at Bhatkal Rural Police Station, and the investigation is continuing.