11 arrested in Nashik for killing man, brutally assaulting another for ‘transporting beef’

Afaan Abdul Majid Ansari succumbed to the injuries sustained after he and Nasir Sheikh were beaten with iron rods and wooden sticks.

Superintendent of Police (Nashik Rural) Shahji Umap said, “An employee of a toll plaza near Sinnar had noticed that the two were carrying meat inside their car. The employee then informed a member of the cow vigilante group, who then forwarded the information to his accomplices in Ghoti.”

Nasir was driving the vehicle and Ansari was seated next to him, police said. Three members of the vigilante group started following them in a car and a motorcycle, and then assaulted them.

Police said the two injured men were found inside their vehicle.

“As soon as we were informed, a team was sent to the spot and the two were rushed to the hospital. Ansari was declared dead during treatment while Sheikh was admitted and is recuperating,” an officer said.

On the basis of Sheikh’s statement, a case of murder, attempt to murder and rioting was registered.

“With the help of CCTV footage from the spot and other technical assistance, the suspects were identified, located and subsequently arrested,” the SP said.

Officials said the meat would be sent for forensic examination.

Subsequently, police said, a case was registered against Ansari and Sheikh on Sunday under relevant sections of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. “Nasir (Sheikh), in his statement to police, confirmed that they were carrying bullock and buffalo meat, due to which we have taken suo motu action and registered a case against the two transporters as well,” said a senior police officer.