Keonjhar: Electrocution has claimed the life of another elephant in a forest range in Odisha’s Keonjhar district in less than 10 days.
According to Dhanraj HD, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Keonjhar, the Forest officials found the carcass of the elephant near Nilapasi Sahi under Bimala forest section of Telkoi Range in Keonjhar Forest Division on Sunday morning.
Estimating the age of the deceased elephant as five years, the DFO said it is suspected to have died after coming in contact with live electric wire spread by the villagers to ward off the elephants on Sarturday night.
“Since a herd of 12 elephants has been roaming in Bimala Forest Section for the last few days, the villagers might have set the electric trap to protect their crop,” he added.
While the Forest officials have detained three villagers for the death of the tusker, Dhanraj said they would start an investigation into the incident and take stern action against those who would be found responsible.
It may be noted that an elephant had died of electrocution near Bhadimara Juang Sahi in Salleikla block of the district under Telkoi forest range on November 10. Altogether, nine people have been held for the “unnatural’” death of the tusker.
Also Read: 5 More Held For Tusker Electrocution In Odisha’s Keonjhar
