Officials from Forest Department stumbled upon decapitated elephant carcass in Srivilliputtur-Megamalai Tiger Reserve near Pannaikadu Friday. Gruesome discovery sparked swift action,leading to detention of two suspects,Mokka Raja,40,and Peria Thavasi,42 . Authorities recovered stolen tusks from them.
Veterinarians from Department of Veterinary Sciences examined scene,determining elephant,around 40 years old,likely died days earlier. An official noted head was severed,indicating intent to steal valuable tusks. “Noticing carcass,the accused had severed head with intent of stealing tusks,” official said .
Possession of elephant tusks illegal. Two men face charges related to poaching,other offenses. After their confessions,Forest Department officials seized tusks and now actively pursuing more suspects linked to crime.
A senior officer overseeing investigation stressed urgency of case,stating team is on lookout for more individuals involved in this illegal act . But what else remains hidden in these protected lands…
