A case was filed regarding the death of a wild elephant that was electrocuted by a live electric wire set up by locals to protect crops in Betkuchi Tilapara area near Nalitabari border of Sherpur on Thursday.
The incident occurred near Madhutila Eco Park where the elephant came into contact with an electrified barrier.
Md. Rafiqul Islam, an official from the Madhutila range of the forest department, lodged the case on Friday night, according to Md. Sanwar Hossain, the officer-in-charge of Nalitabari Police Station.
The primary suspect, Shahidul Islam, was arrested following the discovery of a generator and electric cables in his possession. He, along with 13-14 unidentified others, has been named in the case.
Shahidul was presented in court on Saturday, where he was remanded to jail. Assistant Conservator Md Sadekul Islam Khan of the Sherpur Forest Department revealed that the deceased elephant, estimated to be between 10 and 12 years old, underwent an autopsy before being buried on Friday.
Authorities have identified 10-12 people suspected of involvement and are initiating further legal actions under the Wildlife (Preservation and Security) Act-2012.
Local residents report that a herd of 40-50 elephants has been descending from nearby hills to feed on paddy fields in the border villages of Nalitabari. Farmers, struggling to safeguard their crops, have resorted to various measures, including electrical barriers, to deter the animals. On Thursday evening, an electric wire was set up as another group of elephants entered the area, resulting in the tragic incident.
