Raipur. Under the direction of Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap, the Forest Department has promptly solved the case of a dead elephant found in Kerakhol village under the Raigarh Forest Division. Upon receiving the information, the forest team led by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Raigarh, immediately reached the spot. Preliminary investigation revealed that the elephant died after coming into contact with an electric wire.
During the site inspection, electric wires, dry leaves, soil marks, and suspicious objects were found. The carcass also showed wound marks on the stomach, from which a snare was recovered. It is noteworthy that Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap has directed officials to take strict action against those involved in wildlife crimes.
Accused Tried to Kill Wild Animals by Setting Electric Wires
A three-member veterinary team from the Forest Department conducted a postmortem of the elephant. The initial report confirmed that the cause of death was electrocution. After the incident, the Police Department was informed, and an immediate investigation was launched.
During interrogation of suspected individuals, three accused were identified:
- Veer Singh Manjhi, son of Mehattar Manjhi (28), resident of Kerakhol village
- Ramnath Rathiya, son of Maheshwar Rathiya (42), resident of Auraimuda village
- Basant Rathiya, son of Thakur Ram Rathiya (40), resident of Kerakhol village
During questioning, Veer Singh Manjhi admitted that he, along with his associates, had set up electric wires to protect their fields and to trap wild animals. Unfortunately, the elephant came into contact with the live wire and died. The accused had purchased the wires and iron materials themselves.
Three Accused Arrested Under Forest Crime
All three accused involved in the wildlife crime have been arrested under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, Sections 9 and 51. The case was registered on October 20, and on October 21, the accused were remanded to judicial custody. A detailed investigation into the matter is ongoing.
