Cattle lifting increasing alarmingly in Rangpur

RANGPUR, Jan 17: The incidents of cattle lifting have increased alarmingly at different upazilas under the district in recent time, much to the worry of the cattle farmers and rearers.
Sources alleged that a number of cattle-lifters blessed by the local influential people and law-enforcing agencies are continuing such crime freely.
A large number of farmers who have lost their cattle have become frustrated as they are finding no alternative to cover their losses.
According to sources, during the last couple of weeks more than 80 cattle were lifted by the organised gangs across the district.
Solaiman Mia (55), a leading farmer of Ranipukur area of Mithapukur upazila told FE that all his 5 cows were lifted 2 days ago. Now he has to face huge financial losses. Same incidents have also occurred in the adjacent areas during last one week, he also said.
Ariful, a farmer at Laldighi village of Badarganj upazila said that his all the 3 bullocks were lifted few days ago. Now he is facing serious problem in tilling his land during this peak cultivation season.
A number of affected cattle rearers alleged that many of them sell cow milk and thus earn their livelihood. Now they have become pauper after losing their cattle.
Expressing disappointment, some cattle rearers alleged that they bought their cattle taking loan from local money lenders on interest now it has become huge burden for them to repay the loan money, they added.
The cattle farmers claimed that some cases the miscreants return the stolen cattle to its owners on payment of ransom. They also alleged that they are not eager to go to police station to lodge complaints as the police never visit the places of occurrences and do not take strict action in this regard.

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