Wild elephant killed by explosive laden fruit

An elderly man has been arrested after a wild elephant was killed by an explosive device allegedly planted inside a jackfruit in a forest area near Kochi.
The incident occurred in the Anaikulam forest region, where tribal settlements frequently face intrusion by wild animals, including elephants. According to officials, the elephant entered the village area recently and consumed a jackfruit placed there.
The explosive concealed inside the fruit detonated, causing severe injuries to the elephant’s mouth. The animal reportedly struggled in pain before collapsing and dying shortly after.
Forest Department personnel rushed to the spot upon receiving information and conducted an inspection. A post-mortem examination confirmed that the death was caused by injuries from the explosion. During the investigation, officials identified Saseendran (65), a resident of the local tribal settlement, as the accused.
He allegedly planted the explosive inside the fruit in an attempt to prevent repeated elephant intrusions into the village. Forest officials have arrested Saseendran and further investigation is under way. The incident has raised serious concerns over the use of illegal methods to deal with human-wildlife conflict in forest fringe areas.