Smugglers' syndicate is dominating the sacrificial cattle markets in northern districts on the eve of Eid-ul-Azha with abundant supply from across the border.

Cattle market is found everywhere, even on the highways and small bazaars in villages along the border. Hundreds of cattle are brought from across the border, apparently with no restriction.

Informed sources said varieties of cattle, buffalo, camel, goat are passed through the border on 'passing slip' secured on payment of Tk 100 to Tk 400 each according to the size and value of the animal.

Most of the camels bear the seal 'batil' (useless) and many bullocks are found old or ailing.

Trucks loaded with cattle and camel from border areas are continuously moving towards Dhaka, Chittagong and other parts of the country.

Because of abundant supply the price of camel came down to Tk 8 to 10 thousand. Camel meat is selling in border areas at Tk 80 per kg, which was about Tk 200 a few weeks ago.

Although buyers of sacrificial animals have increased this year as farmers harvested successive bumper crops and stability of prices of other essentials, abundant supply from across the border maintained their prices low.

The demand for Rajasthani goat is high in Rajshahi market. These goats are found buying by richer section of people at high prices.

Because of large supply of larger size Indian goats, the demand for local black goats is comparatively lower this year.