Wild Elephant Shot Dead by Suspected Poachers in Morigaon; Two Bullet Marks Found on Body
By Dalim Phukan
Morigaon/Assam , Nov 13: A wild elephant was allegedly shot dead by suspected poachers in the Shilchang area under Jagiroad PS in the wee hours today in Morigaon district, triggering widespread concern in the locality.
According to preliminary information, two distinct bullet marks were found on the elephant’s body, raising suspicions that it had been killed by poachers.
The elephant reportedly strayed into the Shilchang area from the Kholahat forest range in search of food. During this time, suspected poachers allegedly targeted it. The elephant subsequently succumbed to its bullet injuries.
Following information about the incident, officials of the Forest Department and a team of veterinary doctors rushed to the spot and initiated an investigation.
An investigation is underway to ascertain the possible involvement of poachers and establish the exact circumstances surrounding the elephant’s death. The post-mortem examination and other scientific tests are expected to provide crucial information regarding the cause of death. However, no official information has yet been made available regarding the identification or arrest of those allegedly involved in the incident.
It may be recalled that human-elephant conflict and wildlife protection continue to remain major concerns in Assam. Earlier, in August this year, another wild elephant was found dead in the Pulibagan area near the Nagaon-Karbi Anglong border. Suspicions of poaching were raised after marks resembling bullet wounds were found on its head and abdomen. The Forest Department had also initiated an investigation into that incident.
The latest incident at Shilchang has once again raised serious questions about wildlife conservation and elephant protection in the state. There are likely to be growing demands at the local level for stringent action against those allegedly involved in the killing.
