Bhatkal: Cow theft attempt was foiled by alert villagers in Vivekananda Nagar area of Talageri in Jali village of Bhatkal taluk on Saturday (April 4).

According to reports, the incident took place around 3.45 am when a group of thieves arrived in a white Swift car. They had tied the legs of the cows and fastened ropes around their necks, and were about to leave the spot.

The cows started making noise, which alerted nearby residents. When villagers rushed to the spot to check, the accused fled, abandoning the car.

Villagers gathered and tried to trace the thieves. It is said that another group of the gang was hiding in a nearby forest area and was about to help them escape. Meanwhile, villagers informed the police. Before police could arrive, the accused fled from the scene, leaving behind both the car and a bike they had brought.

During inspection, police found a number plate inside the car. Villagers alleged that the incident could be linked to a gang involved in repeated cattle thefts.

Residents have demanded strict action against those involved and urged the police to increase night patrolling to prevent such incidents.