Rogue Elephant Captured in Angul After Fatal Attacks on Villagers

Angul: In a major relief to residents of Angul district, the Forest Department on Wednesday successfully tranquilized and captured a rogue elephant suspected to be responsible for multiple human deaths in the region.

The elephant was traced to a forest near Kusumapat following an extensive search operation involving forest personnel and drone surveillance. A specialized team, assisted by veterinarians, tranquilized the animal and secured it without incident.

After being sedated, the elephant was carefully lifted onto a transport vehicle with the help of a crane and shifted to Kulasinha Nursery for medical observation and treatment.

Forest officials said the elephant is in stable condition and is being monitored round the clock by a team of three veterinarians. Once its health assessment is completed, the animal is likely to be relocated to the Similipal landscape in Mayurbhanj district. However, the final decision will be taken after approval from higher authorities.

The capture comes in the wake of growing concern among local residents following a series of elephant attacks in the area. According to sources, the elephant allegedly trampled two persons to death in separate incidents at Chandanpur and Madhupur villages on the same day, triggering fear among villagers.

Speaking on the development, Angul Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) said a detailed report on the operation would be submitted to senior officials, following which a decision on the elephant’s permanent relocation would be taken.

Residents of the affected villages welcomed the Forest Department’s action, expressing hope that the capture of the elephant would help restore normalcy and ensure the safety of people living in the region.