Assam: Wild elephant killed and mutilated in Dudhnoi, one arrested

An incident of extreme wildlife brutality where a wild elephant was killed, and its trunk, tusks, and tail were gruesomely severed in Dudhnoi on December 3. The horrific act, believed to have been carried out for superstitious purposes, has left conservationists and local residents outraged.

The tragedy came to light on Tuesday morning when the lifeless elephant was discovered in a paddy field. Initially, forest officials suspected electrocution from a live wire as the cause of death. However, the absence of key body parts raised concerns about a planned act of poaching.

An investigation led by the Forest Department and local police uncovered blood traces in a nearby village, leading to the arrest of a man identified as Fridison. The accused reportedly confessed to killing the elephant and removing its body parts for rituals aimed at obtaining supernatural powers. The severed trunk, tusks, and tail were recovered from his possession.

Officials described the act as both barbaric and deeply rooted in dangerous superstitions. "This kind of cruelty underscores the urgency of addressing illegal wildlife killings and superstition-driven practices," said a senior forest officer involved in the case.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with environmentalists calling for stricter laws and awareness campaigns to curb such practices. While the accused remains in custody, authorities are investigating whether he acted alone or as part of a larger network.