Latehar News: Woman’s Body Found in Kujrum Forest, Suspected Death by Elephant Attack

Latehar, November 06, 2024: A decomposed body of a 55-year-old woman, identified as Suratmania Devi, was discovered in the Kujrum Forest near Barwadih police station limits, sparking concerns of escalating wildlife threats in the area. Initial reports indicate that the woman may have fallen victim to an elephant attack, a suspected cause of death due to rising elephant activity in the region.

Body Found Amidst Rising Wildlife Activity

Forest patrol officers encountered the body, which was in an advanced state of decomposition, during a routine inspection of Kujrum Forest. The woman, a resident of Rud village and wife of the late Nagdev Oraon, was reportedly missing for several days before her body was discovered. The Barwadih police and forest department have jointly launched an investigation to determine the exact circumstances leading to her death.

Suspected Cause of Death: Elephant Attack

Preliminary evidence suggests that an elephant attack may have been responsible for the woman’s death. Eyewitness reports and evidence from the scene indicate the possibility of aggressive elephant behavior in the area, a trend observed in recent months as wildlife activity increases in Jharkhand’s forested regions. Officials noted that Kujrum Forest, like many other areas in Latehar, has seen a surge in elephant movement, raising concerns for the safety of local residents.

Police and Forest Department Collaboration in Investigation

Upon being alerted, the Barwadih police, led by Officer Ajit Kumar and forest department officials, headed by Forest Range Officer Tarun Kumar Singh, reached the scene to begin a detailed investigation. Police have taken the body for a post-mortem examination in Latehar to confirm the cause of death. In response to the incident, the forest department has issued a public safety alert, urging villagers in nearby communities to remain vigilant when venturing into forest areas.

Safety Alert for Local Residents

The Kujrum Forest tragedy has instilled fear among residents, many of whom rely on forest resources for their livelihoods. The forest department has intensified its patrolling efforts and continues to caution villagers about the dangers of wildlife encounters, particularly in zones known for high elephant activity.

This incident highlights the growing challenge of human-wildlife conflicts in the region and underscores the need for continued vigilance and preventive measures to protect local communities from wildlife-related risks.