A three-year-old wild elephant that roamed through residential areas, attacking people and property, succumbed to injuries hours after being tranquilised and captured at Karikottakary in Kannur on Wednesday evening.
The elephant, which had severe wounds near its tusks and jaws, was first spotted near Vattaparamba on Tuesday night before moving through Edaveli and Athikkal. It was finally found in Ayyankunnu panchayat. The animal reportedly attacked a Forest department vehicle and charged into a house’s backyard, prompting officials to take immediate action.
“The elephant had deep injuries near its tusks and jaw, which could have worsened its condition,” said Divisional Forest Officer Vysak Sasi. It was tranquillised by a team led by veterinary surgeons Dr. Ajesh Mohandas and Dr. Ilias Rawathar. The controlled dose of tranquilliser allowed officials to restrain the animal with ropes and provide first aid. However, the animal collapsed while being loaded onto a lorry and died around 9.15 p.m.
Earlier, District Collector Arun K. Vijayan had imposed prohibitory orders in three wards of Ayyankunnu panchayat, restricting public movement.
Published – March 05, 2025 10:32 pm IST
