In a significant wildlife operation, the environment, forest and climate change department, in collaboration with the Karnataka forest department, successfully captured rogue elephants in Deomali and Sunpura, areas linked to multiple human fatalities. The operation commenced on March 30, with the initial capture occurring on April 1, when authorities apprehended an elephant near RKM School in Deomali, which had been implicated in the deaths of five individuals, including the former MLA Kapchen Rajkumar in July 2025.
On a subsequent operation on Sunday afternoon, another rogue elephant was captured near Jecko village in Sunpura, known for causing two deaths, one of which involved police officer Martin Lego earlier this year. Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF), Tezu, Millo Tasser, indicated that the team employed thermal scanning technology alongside eyewitness testimony to successfully track and identify these elephants.
The operation was executed by a 12-member expert team from the Karnataka Forest Department, led by senior veterinary officer Dr. Ramesha H, who were associated with Nagarhole National Park and Bandipur National Park. The mission utilized advanced technology, including AI-enabled thermal drones and specialized tracking equipment sourced from these reserves.
This operation operates at a national level with backing from the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Wildlife Institute of India. Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Wangki Lowang praised the efforts of the officials and thanked Chief Minister Pema Khandu for facilitating the Karnataka team’s involvement. Local MLA Dr. Mohesh Chai also expressed his appreciation, stating that this operation would aid in restoring a sense of security among the local populace.
Following this success, the team is expected to proceed to Mayudia to capture a tiger alleged to be responsible for the killing of police officer Chikseng Manpang in February.
