Bhadrak: Tension prevailed near Bhatatira railway station level crossing under Sabarang police limits in Odisha’s Bhadrak district after a vehicle allegedly involved in illegal cattle transportation was set on fire by locals.

According to reports, the van carrying the cattle in an inhumane manner was intercepted by a group of people while it was travelling from Sabarang towards Mirzapur. The animals were reportedly tied tightly inside the vehicle, raising suspicions of illegal trafficking.

Enraged over the incident, locals set the vehicle ablaze at the spot. More than six cattle were rescued from the van during the incident.

The driver of the vehicle fled from the scene soon after the incident.

Fire services personnel from Bhadrak rushed to the spot and managed to bring the fire under control.

Police from the Sabarang station have launched an investigation into the incident.