Mohali: Six booked for stealing buffalo, two calves from locked cattle shed

A livestock theft case unfolded in Mohali when a buffalo and its two young calves were taken from a walled enclosure that lay roughly 350 yards from the owner’s house. The complainant, Baljit Singh, a labourer from Dialpura village, reported the loss to local police, prompting a swift investigation that led to the registration of a case against six individuals.

The theft took place at a time when the animals were secured inside a locked cattle shed, a measure intended to protect the herd from opportunistic thieves. According to the complainant, the enclosure was situated at a short distance from his residence, yet the perpetrators managed to breach the lock and remove the animals without detection until the following morning.

Police officials confirmed that a case has been filed under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code dealing with theft and damage to property. While the exact identities of the six accused have not been disclosed, the registration of the FIR indicates that law enforcement has identified sufficient evidence to proceed with the investigation.

The incident underscores a recurring concern in the region regarding the security of livestock, especially in areas where agricultural holdings are interspersed with residential clusters. Local farmers often rely on modest fencing and locked sheds to safeguard their animals, but the rapid nature of this theft suggests that such measures may not always deter determined offenders.

Authorities have not released further details about the motive behind the theft, nor have they provided information on the whereabouts of the stolen buffalo and calves. The focus remains on gathering evidence, locating the accused, and ensuring that the legal process is followed.

In recent months, similar incidents of livestock theft have been reported across the Chandigarh‑Mohali corridor, prompting calls for enhanced vigilance among farmers. While the police continue their inquiry, the case serves as a reminder of the need for stronger protective measures on farms, including better fencing, surveillance, and community awareness about suspicious activities.

The six individuals booked in connection with the theft are expected to appear before the magistrate in the coming weeks, where the charges will be formally read out and bail considerations will be made. Until then, the investigation remains ongoing, with police officers reviewing any available surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses from the surrounding area.

Baljit Singh, whose livelihood depends on the health of his cattle, expressed his frustration over the loss, emphasizing the emotional and economic impact of such crimes on families dependent on livestock.

The incident adds to a series of theft reports that have surfaced in the region, highlighting the challenges faced by small‑scale farmers in protecting their assets. As the police proceed with their inquiry, the outcome of this case may influence future discussions on improving rural security measures.

For now, the focus remains on the legal proceedings against the six accused and the recovery of the stolen animals, which are vital not only for the complainant’s family but also for the broader agricultural community in Mohali.

Source: Hindustan Times