Over 100 Cattle Stolen, Locals Protest

In Pabna’s Bhardara Union, rampant thefts of cattle and goats from farmers’ barns have left numerous families destitute. In response, residents of Koladi village organised a large-scale human chain and sit-in protest on Tuesday (6 January) demanding immediate action against the thieves.

The protest, held from Koladi’s Bor Bot Tala and Charabot Tala to Seoli Bazar, saw the participation of thousands of locals across social and economic backgrounds. Demonstrators carried placards and banners with slogans denouncing the thefts and calling for law enforcement intervention.

Speakers at the event highlighted the alarming statistics: since 5 August of the past year, over 100 cows belonging to nearly 40 farmers, along with at least 10 goats, have been stolen. Despite repeated complaints, local authorities have yet to take effective action, even when clear evidence has been presented.

They also alleged that some influential figures in the area may be involved in facilitating or covering up these crimes. Residents expressed frustration that even after a change in the local political landscape, the thefts continue unabated. Farmers, many of whom stay up all night to guard their livestock, find that such precautions are insufficient to prevent theft.

Demanding swift justice, the protestors warned that if the culprits were not apprehended within the next 24 hours, they would escalate their agitation with a larger programme of demonstrations.

Pabna Sadar police officer-in-charge, Dulal Hossain, confirmed that complaints have been received and investigations are ongoing. “We have inspected the sites and are actively working on the cases. We need some time to ensure thorough action,” he said.

Prominent participants in the protest included Abdul Aziz Khan, Shamsur Rahman Master, UP member Korban Ali Khan, Abdul Khalek Khan, Saidul Islam Chappan, Abdul Bari, Abdullahil Kafi, Wahiduzzaman Swapan, and Mustafizur Rahman Jisan, a leader of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.

Cattle Theft Statistics (Past 1.5 Years)

The protest underscores the growing insecurity faced by farmers in the region, highlighting the urgent need for law enforcement and local authorities to curb livestock theft before more families are driven to poverty.