Injured elephant dies after biting explosive device in Kilinochchi

A female elephant injured after biting an explosive device in Kilinochchi died on Monday (28) evening near the Akkarayankulam tank.

The elephant, believed to be about nine years old, had been injured around six days earlier after biting a “hakka patas” explosive device allegedly placed by a farmer.

The explosion caused severe injuries to the animal’s mouth, leaving it unable to eat.

Wildlife officers in Kilinochchi attempted to provide the elephant with nutrition and medical treatment, but the injuries were too severe for it to recover.

The animal later collapsed near the tank and died.

Wildlife officials are making arrangements to conduct a post-mortem examination.

Akkarayankulam Police are also taking steps to arrest the farmer suspected of placing the explosive device.