Two persons were killed and another seriously injured after they were trampled upon by a wild elephant near Photamati village in Raksamgre C&RD Block under West Garo Hills.
The incident, as per locals took place early morning today though none were able to pinpoint the exact moment it occurred.
The two victims who were killed have been identified as a woman Malsa Marak (35) of Mengotchigre and Bitu Marak (52) of Napakgre while the seriously injured person has been identified as Herod Sangma (55) also of Napakgre.
Elephant herds moving in the area, which is also very close to the state of Assam, is a common sight as are encounters with elephants. The area is also part of the famed elephant corridor.
However the elephant that attacked the villagers was a lone rogue, locally known as ‘Jumbo’ for sheer size. The elephant is known to roam the areas between Raksamgre, Bajengdoba and parts of Assam during its movements.
In the first reported incident, Malsa Marak was apparently on her way to the rice fields to work along with her sister at a village called Jamdamgre when she suddenly came upon jumbo. Having no time to react, she was trampled by the pachyderm and died from her injuries.
The elephant then moved to the village of Napakgre where it again injured at least two persons with one of them, Bitu Marak succumbing to his injuries. The other, Herod Sangma is said to be critical.
As per locals, Herod was lying in front of his house after suffering from temporary paralysis when his leg was completely trampled upon. He is currently undergoing treatment at the Tikrikilla PHC and he is said to be critical.
Upon being informed of the incident, a Wildlife team, led by the DFO Arphiyush Sangma quickly rushed to the spot to take stock of the situation.
“The elephant has now moved into the state of Assam and we are keeping a close watch on its movements. We are yet to assess the damage done as we have been busy in ensuring no further incidents take place,” said the DFO.
Initial reports have pointed to no major property damage.
Meanwhile the administration of the Raksamgre C&RD Block has advised people to not venture out unnecessarily as the threat of the pachyderm returning still remains.
