Md. Sulaiman, Bhola
Hundreds of farmers in Bhola’s char areas are living in fear following a series of cattle and buffalo thefts. The Bhola Sadar Upazila Buffalo Owners Cooperative Society claims that more than 400 cattle and buffaloes have been stolen since August 6, with none recovered so far.
On Sunday (September 27), affected farmers and association members formed a human chain in front of the Bhola Press Club, demanding recovery of the stolen livestock, arrest of the alleged theft gang, and better security in the char areas.
Speakers said cattle and buffaloes have been stolen from livestock camps in several chars along the Meghna-Tetulia river basin, including Char Madanpur, Char Kalupur, Char Gazipur and Char Kachia.
They alleged that repeated complaints to the administration and law-enforcement agencies have yet to bring an effective response.
The farmers warned that continued theft could seriously damage Bhola’s traditional buffalo-rearing sector and cause major financial losses.
The human chain also called for special recovery drives, stronger River Police and Coast Guard patrols, government assistance and easy-term loans for affected farmers, and construction of livestock shelters in the char areas.
FP/A
