Guwahati, April 23 : In a coordinated crackdown on suspected illegal cattle transportation, police in Assam's Bongaigaon district seized 23 cattle during a joint operation, officials said on Thursday.

The raid was carried out at the residence of an alleged cattle smuggler, identified as Mannat Ali, located in Bartari -- a sensitive border area between Bongaigaon and Barpeta districts.

The operation was conducted jointly by teams from Abhayapuri and Mererchar police stations under the supervision of the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Abhayapuri.

According to police sources, the search operation led to the recovery of the cattle, which were suspected to have been transported in violation of existing regulations.

Following the seizure, the animals were taken into custody and shifted to Abhayapuri Police Station, where they are currently being kept.

Officials said a detailed investigation has been initiated to ascertain the source of the cattle, their intended destination, and whether an organised network may be involved.

Authorities are also examining possible violations under relevant laws governing cattle transportation and smuggling.

No arrests have been confirmed so far in connection with the case, and police indicated that further action would depend on the findings of the ongoing probe.

Meanwhile, the Goria-Moria-Deshi National Council has raised concerns over what it described as the continued prevalence of illegal activities in the region.

The organisation alleged that cattle smuggling, along with illicit timber trade, has been taking place in parts of Bongaigaon district for a considerable period.

Calling for stricter enforcement, the council urged the administration to intensify surveillance and take decisive steps to dismantle such networks.

It also emphasised the need for coordinated action among enforcement agencies to prevent recurrence of such incidents.

Police officials, however, said that operations against illegal activities are being carried out regularly and reiterated their commitment to curbing smuggling and related offences in the district.

Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.

/IANS