Rajganj, 05th February: A man was arrested on Tuesday for allegedly setting up an illegal electric connection to protect crops, which caused the death of an elephant last year. The arrested individual, Babulal Mandal, is a resident of Dudhia in Gajoldoba. Another suspect involved in the incident is still on the run.
Reportedly, in October last year, the body of an adult male elephant was found at the Dudhia embankment of Gajoldoba under Mantadari Gram Panchayat in Rajganj Block, bearing burn marks. An autopsy confirmed that the elephant died of electrocution.
After an investigation, the Forest Department identified two suspects, but both went into hiding. The court later issued arrest warrants against them. Acting on a tip-off, forest officials raided Dudhia village on Tuesday and arrested one of the suspects.
Belakoba Ranger Chiranjit Pal stated that the accused was spotted in Dudhia village, leading to his arrest. The arrested individual was presented at Jalpaiguri District Court on Wednesday.