Chaibasa: Fear continues to grip several villages in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district as a rogue elephant claimed its sixth victim in the past five days on Monday. The ongoing elephant rampage has left multiple villagers injured and sparked widespread panic, highlighting growing concerns over human–wildlife conflict in the region.
Despite repeated incidents, the forest department has so far failed to rein in the aggressive elephant, raising serious questions about preparedness and public safety measures. Residents in affected areas remain on edge, with many afraid to step out of their homes as the animal continues to roam freely.
The latest incident occurred on Monday morning in Mistribeda village under Bila Panchayat of the Santra forest area in Goilkera block. The elephant attacked 50-year-old Jonga Laguri, killing her on the spot, and seriously injured her 52-year-old husband, Chandra Mohan Laguri, who tried to save her. Other family members narrowly escaped the attack.
According to eyewitnesses, the elephant suddenly entered the village and grabbed Jonga Laguri with its trunk, repeatedly slamming her to the ground. She died instantly due to the severe injuries. Her husband sustained injuries during the rescue attempt.
Following the incident, the injured man was rushed to Chakradharpur Sub-Divisional Hospital, where he was given first aid and later referred to Chaibasa Sadar Hospital for advanced treatment. Goilkera police took possession of the body and sent it to Chakradharpur Sub-Divisional Hospital for post-mortem examination.
In response, the forest department has intensified precautionary measures. Announcements are being made through loudspeakers in nearby villages, urging residents to remain alert and avoid venturing out unnecessarily, especially during early morning and night hours. Villagers have also been provided with firecrackers to scare the elephant away in case of an encounter.
A forest range officer said that forest guards and the local police administration were alerted immediately after receiving information about the attack. Efforts are underway to track the elephant’s movements and prevent further casualties.
Kolhan Forest Division Officer Kuldeep Kumar stated that a specialized team from West Bengal has been called in to control and drive away the rogue elephant. The team is expected to arrive shortly. He added that forest officials are actively spreading awareness among villagers about safety measures and ways to protect themselves from elephant attacks.
It is noteworthy that over the last five days, the elephant has wreaked havoc in areas under Tonto, Muffasil, and Goilkera police stations, killing six people and injuring at least five others, some of whom are reported to be in critical condition. Fear and anger are mounting among villagers, who are demanding urgent and effective action to end the ongoing threat.
