Alleged cow smuggler killed, another injured in shootout with Rajasthan police
Deeg (Rajasthan), June 18:
A police operation targeting suspected cattle smugglers in Rajasthan’s Deeg district ended in bloodshed on Wednesday morning. One alleged smuggler died, and his father, believed to be the gang leader, sustained serious injuries in a gunfight with police near Ghatmika village.
Shootout Breaks Out During Interception Attempt
Around 5 AM, police received intelligence about a suspected cattle-smuggling truck moving through the Pahari police station area. Officers set up a roadblock to intercept the Tata-407 vehicle. As soon as the truck approached the checkpoint, the suspects opened fire.
The gunfight lasted for about 30 minutes. Police responded with equal force, leading to a fierce exchange of bullets. By the end of the clash, one man was dead and another badly injured.
Father-Son Duo Identified Among Accused
The deceased, identified as 30-year-old Ashiq (also reported as Ishaq), was allegedly part of a notorious smuggling ring. His father, Hasam (also known as Kada), was also present at the scene. He received multiple bullet wounds and was taken to RBM Hospital in Bharatpur.
Hasam has a long criminal history, with at least 15 cases filed against him in Rajasthan and Haryana. Police had placed a reward of ₹45,000 on his arrest. The cases include cattle smuggling, unlawful possession of arms, and attacking police teams.
Two Accomplices Escape Amid Gunfire
While Ashiq and Hasam were caught in the shootout, two other accomplices managed to flee. Police identified them as Qasam and Saddam. They are believed to have escaped toward the Haryana border.
Officers launched a manhunt immediately. Teams are scanning nearby forests and highways. Police have also contacted Haryana authorities and are checking CCTV footage from toll plazas and road junctions.
Three Policemen Injured but Stable
During the shootout, three police officers sustained minor injuries. Their bulletproof jackets saved them from major harm. Doctors treated them and discharged them later in the day.
A police official confirmed that both sides fired several rounds. Forensic experts have collected bullet casings from the scene and are reviewing the sequence of events.
Weapons and Cattle Seized
Police recovered two country-made pistols, live cartridges, and sharp weapons at the site. The truck, suspected to be carrying illegally transported cattle, was also seized. Officials are verifying the origin and destination of the animals.
“The weapons we found confirm the gang’s readiness to fight law enforcement,” said a senior police officer from Bharatpur. “This wasn’t a one-off operation. They were running a network.”
Locals Feared the Gang’s Presence
Many villagers from Ghatmika and nearby areas knew about the gang but remained silent due to fear. One resident, who asked not to be named, said, “Everyone knew what they were doing. But no one wanted to get on their bad side. They had guns and connections.”
Police believe Hasam’s group has been operating across state borders for years. The gang likely used rural routes to move cattle and avoid checkpoints.
Criminal History Suggests a Pattern
Hasam’s record suggests that this group was more than a local operation. He was known for leading armed smuggling convoys and had previously evaded capture during raids. His son Ashiq was also seen at crime scenes in earlier reports.
“This family didn’t just move cattle — they ran a smuggling racket across Rajasthan, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh,” the officer added.
Legal Action and Investigation Continue
Police filed a First Information Report (FIR) under multiple laws, including attempt to murder and illegal arms possession. They also invoked sections from the Rajasthan Bovine Animal Act. Investigators are checking whether the recovered cattle were stolen or purchased under false pretenses.
Authorities assured the public that the encounter would be reviewed by internal and judicial bodies. “We are collecting all evidence — including video footage and forensic data. Everything will be transparent,” the district superintendent said.
Tensions Rise, Political Reactions Expected
Cow smuggling is a highly sensitive topic in Rajasthan. The incident has already sparked debates on social media and among political groups. Some praised the police for acting decisively. Others called for a deeper probe to ensure accountability.
Human rights advocates have asked for a fair and independent inquiry. In previous cases, they’ve expressed concern about the use of force in alleged encounters involving cattle smugglers.
Police maintained that their team acted in self-defense after being fired upon.
Organized Cow Smuggling: A Growing Threat
Wednesday’s incident sheds light on the expanding problem of cattle smuggling. Smugglers have grown more aggressive and better armed. They often use GPS tracking, convoy systems, and informants to stay ahead of law enforcement.
“This is no longer about villagers trying to make a living. These are dangerous, organized criminal networks,” said an officer from the anti-smuggling task force.
Police officials emphasized the need for stronger interstate coordination, better surveillance at borders, and more intelligence-led operations.
Conclusion
The shootout in Deeg district marks another serious flashpoint in the ongoing battle against cattle smuggling in India. With one alleged smuggler dead, another injured, and two on the run, the case has drawn statewide attention. Authorities continue their investigation, while the public watches closely for answers — and justice.
