Injured elephant dies after eating bait bomb

Bhubaneswar: An 8-year-old female elephant that was critically injured after eating a bait bomb in Dhenkanal district died on Tuesday, forest officials said.

The animal underwent treatment after suffering severe injuries to its trunk in Bhuban block, where the explosive-laced food ball (bait) was reportedly planted by poachers targeting a wild boar.

According to officials, the elephant accidentally consumed the food-laced bomb, commonly used in illegal hunting, causing devastating injuries when it exploded in its mouth and trunk area. “The blast left the young elephant unable to feed properly, and its condition remained critical despite sustained veterinary care and monitoring by forest staff,” said a senior forest officer.

The incident triggered outrage among wildlife activists and local residents, who condemned the use of bait bombs in forest fringe areas. “Such crude explosive devices are often hidden inside food items and are intended to kill or maim wild animals, but they can also harm non-target species, including elephants. The forest department should increase patrols along sensitive pockets,” said wildlife conservationist Bijay Sahu.

Forest department personnel said efforts were made to save the elephant, but the injuries were too severe. “An investigation was launched to identify those responsible for planting the explosive. Action would be taken against the culprits under wildlife protection and criminal laws,” the officer added.

The death once again highlighted the growing threat posed by poaching methods that endanger wildlife in Odisha’s forested regions.