Guwahati, Jan 21: Dibrugarh Police have uncovered what is being investigated as a possible organised street dog killing operation, arresting three men during a late-night patrol in the early hours of January 20. The development has sent ripples of concern through the town, where residents and animal welfare groups have long reported the unexplained disappearance of street dogs across several neighbourhoods.
According to police officials, a patrolling team noticed a vehicle moving suspiciously within town limits around 2 am. The car, bearing registration number AS-02Z-5386, drew attention due to its unusual movement pattern. Sensing something amiss, the team followed the vehicle discreetly before stopping it and detaining the occupants for questioning.
The three arrested individuals were identified as Syongkiri Rongphar (27), Waisong Rongpi (28), and Sensen Hamse (21), all hailing from Karbi Anglong district. A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the recovery of 15 jute rice bags, ropes, packets of biscuits and three mobile phones. Investigators said the items seized point towards a possible pre-planned operation, especially in light of mounting public concern over missing stray dogs in the town.
For several months, local residents, animal lovers and welfare organisations have raised alarms over what they believe could be organised cruelty, illegal trafficking or systematic killing of street dogs, often suspected to take place during night hours. The recovery of jute bags and ropes during a midnight interception has intensified fears that the suspects may be part of a wider network operating covertly.
Senior police officials said the accused are currently being interrogated, while the seized mobile phones have been sent for forensic examination. Investigators are analysing call records, location data and digital communications to establish whether the suspects are linked to similar incidents or to a broader inter-district operation. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of a larger organised racket.
The arrests have triggered strong reactions from animal rights activists and civil society groups, who have called for a swift and transparent investigation. They have also demanded strict action under relevant animal protection laws if the allegations are proven. Police said further details will emerge as the investigation progresses.
