Pipili: Tension flared along the busy Puri–Bhubaneswar National Highway in the early hours of Saturday after two pickup vans allegedly transporting cattle were set on fire by a group of locals near Satashankha.

Police said  the incident took place around 3:00 am when the vehicles—identified as Bolero pickup vans—were intercepted by a group of people who suspected illegal cattle smuggling. The group reportedly stopped the vehicles, unloaded the cattle, and released them before setting both vans ablaze.

Eyewitness accounts suggest that the confrontation escalated quickly, leaving little room for intervention. While no injuries have been reported so far, the act of vigilantism has raised concerns about law and order in the area.

Upon receiving information, fire brigade personnel from Pipili rushed to the spot and managed to bring the flames under control. However, both vehicles were completely destroyed by the time the fire was extinguished.

Police begin  probe

Police teams reached the scene soon after and have initiated an investigation to verify the allegations of cattle smuggling and identify those responsible for torching the vehicles. Officials are also trying to trace the owners and drivers of the vans, who reportedly fled the scene during the chaos.

Authorities have urged the public not to take the law into their own hands, emphasizing that any suspected illegal activity should be reported to the police for appropriate action.

Further details are awaited as the investigation continues.

Also read: Crackdown on Cattle Smugglers in Bhadrak and Mayurbhanj; Cash, Gold, Weapons Seized