What Happened to the Elephant in Keonjhar? Tusk Theft Sparks Investigation

An elephant's death in Keonjhar has led to a tusk theft investigation, prompting the Forest department to take action against officials. With five villagers arrested and ongoing inquiries by the Joint Task Force, the situation raises concerns about wildlife protection and departmental transparency. What will happen next in this unfolding story?

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 20, 2025, 09:55 IST

Investigation Launched After Elephant Death and Tusk Theft

Keonjhar: In response to the recent death of an elephant and the subsequent theft of its tusks in the Saleikena reserve forest within the Telkoi range, the Forest department has taken significant action. Forester Malay Kumar Jena and Guard Ajit Kumar Das have been reassigned, while a showcause notice has been issued to Range Officer Shivaji Mohan Rao, as confirmed by Keonjhar DFO Dhanraj HD on Saturday evening.

The tusks were reportedly stolen due to a delay in discovering the elephant's death. Sources indicate that these measures aim to ensure transparency during the ongoing departmental investigation involving the officials.

Previously, five local villagers were apprehended in connection with this case; however, the recovery of the tusks remains unresolved, raising concerns among authorities.

The Joint Task Force, along with the Special Task Force, is actively probing the circumstances surrounding the elephant's death, with ACF Sudipta Panda leading the investigation efforts, as stated by the DFO.