An elderly wild elephant has been found dead under mysterious circumstances in Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar, with initial suspicion pointing to electrocution. However, the post-mortem veterinarian has indicated that the animal may also have been shot.
The carcass was recovered on Tuesday morning from agricultural land in the Hariner Jiri West Khayrati Ramzan Ali Ghona area of Raja Palong Union. Locals immediately informed the Forest Department.
Abdullah Al Mamun, Divisional Forest Officer of the Cox’s Bazar South Forest Division, said he visited the spot with a team after receiving the report.
“Several electric wires were found spread around the area. It appears the elephant may have died from electrocution. However, we cannot confirm anything until we receive the post-mortem report,” he said.
Ukhia Upazila Livestock Officer Dr Syed Hossain, who is conducting the post-mortem, described the death as “suspicious”.
“The elephant has a perforation in its ear — a hand passed from one side comes out the other. This suggests the possibility of a gunshot wound. There are also burn marks consistent with an electric shock, and several parts of the body show signs of infection,” he said.
“No conclusion can be drawn until the post-mortem findings are finalised.”
Local residents allege that elephant movement has increased recently along the forest–settlement boundary. As wild herds damage crops and property, some farmers have reportedly begun using illegal electrified traps, putting wildlife at constant risk.
DFO Abdullah Al Mamun said the elephant will be buried following the post-mortem examination.
“Anyone found involved in the elephant’s death will face legal action,” he added.
Forest Department data show that five wild elephants have died so far this year in Ukhiya and Teknaf.
The deaths include one mother elephant in Teknaf, two in the Hnila Beat and Jumchhari areas, one in Dochhari, and the latest in West Khayrati of Ukhiya.
