Overview

• Locals intercepted a truck near Ainapur in Belagavi district on September 22, allegedly found meat inside, assaulted the driver, and set the vehicle on fire.
• Police say the consignment originated in Kudachi, with reports differing on the intended destination, and the quantity of meat reported ranges from several quintals to about five tonnes.
• Two cases have been registered: one over alleged illegal transport under cattle-protection and animal‑cruelty laws, and another over arson, theft/robbery and provisions of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) law.
• Authorities report multiple arrests and detentions in both cases, with figures varying across outlets, and police confirm the main accused in the transport case was held in Kalaburagi on September 23.
• Fire teams from the Belagavi department and Ugar Sugar Factory reached the site after the truck was already gutted, and investigators are working to verify the cargo and identify those involved in the torching.