A criminal network involved in cattle robbery in Sirajganj has been uncovered during an investigation which has revealed that meat from stolen livestock was allegedly supplied to supermarkets in Dhaka. The shocking disclosure emerged from a case linked to a cattle theft incident dating back approximately one year, shedding light on an organised supply chain operating across districts.
According to police investigators, the gang intercepted a livestock-laden vehicle carrying 14 cattle and redirected the stolen animals into illegal slaughter and distribution channels. The meat was subsequently processed and allegedly delivered to retail outlets in the capital, raising serious concerns over food safety, criminal logistics, and regulatory oversight.
So far, three individuals have been arrested in connection with the case. One of the accused has reportedly provided a confessional statement under Section 164 before a magistrate, detailing the modus operandi of the group and identifying other participants involved in the operation. Authorities confirmed that all three suspects are currently in custody, while efforts continue to apprehend additional members of the network.
The incident dates back to 17 April, ahead of the Eid-ul-Azha period, when a businessman from Chattogram, Amanullah, purchased 14 cattle from northern regions and was transporting them to Dhaka by pickup truck. As the vehicle reached the Sirajganj–Bogura highway stretch during the night, it was intercepted by a group of armed robbers. The driver, assistant, and cattle herders were reportedly restrained, and the cattle were forcibly transferred to another vehicle.
A case was subsequently filed at Salanga Police Station against unidentified suspects. Following a prolonged investigation supported by digital surveillance and intelligence gathering, police arrested one of the primary suspects, identified as Ripon alias Hasan, aged 24, from his home area on 13 May. His statement allegedly provided crucial leads that resulted in further arrests.
Details of those arrested
| Name | Age | Father’s Name | Area | Alleged Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ripon alias Hasan | 24 | Mohammad Abdullah | Bachamara, Daulatpur, Manikganj | Main robber and coordinator |
| Zia Hossain | 45 | Julmot Khan | Enayetpur, Ashulia, Dhaka | Meat supplier to supermarkets |
| Abdul Alim | 42 | Goljar Sheikh | Mohanganj, Bera, Pabna (Ashulia tenant) | Butcher and processing associate |
Police officials stated that Zia Hossain and Abdul Alim were subsequently arrested from their respective localities based on information extracted from the initial detainee. Investigators believe the network may have additional operatives involved in transportation, slaughtering, and distribution stages.
Authorities have described the case as a significant breakthrough, highlighting how stolen livestock can be integrated into formal supply chains through covert intermediaries. Investigations remain ongoing, with police prioritising the identification and arrest of remaining suspects linked to the operation.