Kendrapara, Nov 14: A youth was injured after being shot by suspected cattle smugglers in the Naranpur area under Sadar Police Station in Kendrapara district late Thursday night. The victim has been identified as Akshaya Das, a resident of Pasta village.

Sources say a group of local youths intercepted a vehicle believed to be involved in illegal cattle transportation at Gandakia Chhak. The youths had previously raised concerns about the same vehicle being used for cattle smuggling.

While the group was questioning the driver, a second vehicle, a Bolero, arrived at the scene. Individuals inside the Bolero allegedly attacked the youths, forcing them to flee into the village for safety. The attackers, suspected to be cattle smugglers, reportedly chased the group into the village.

At the time of the incident, Akshaya Das was sleeping inside the village clubhouse. Hearing the commotion, he stepped outside, where he was shot by the smugglers, who had entered the village while pursuing the fleeing youths. The bullet struck Das in the left thigh.

He was immediately rushed to the District Headquarters Hospital, where he is currently undergoing treatment.

Police were informed about the incident and have started investigation into the matter.