A tragic incident occurred on Sunday afternoon in the forest area near Mathura under Digapahandi police station limits in Ganjam district, where a 28-year-old man lost his life in a bomb blast. The deceased has been identified as G. Raja, a resident of Naua Maulabhanja. According to police sources, Raja was grazing pigs in the forest when he came into contact with live bombs, resulting in severe injuries.
He was immediately rushed to Digapahandi hospital for primary treatment and later referred to MKCG Medical College and Hospital. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries during treatment. Police suspect that miscreants might have placed the explosive substances to poach wild animals, particularly wild boar for their meat. Alternatively, some individuals might have laid the bombs to protect their crops from wild animals.
Based on a complaint lodged by the victim's father, G. Krishna, a case has been registered at Digapahandi police station. IIC Kishore Kumar Samal confirmed that the body was handed over to the family for last rites, and an inquiry into the incident has been initiated. Forest officials are also investigating the matter.
Forest Department Response
Forest Range Officer Dibya Ranjan Sahu stated that patrolling is being conducted in vulnerable areas to prevent illegal poaching. He assured that patrolling would be intensified in the region. This incident follows the deaths of two wild elephants that came into contact with live electric wires near Dhepaguda and Bhimanagar in the Digapahandi forest range on January 2 and 30, respectively.
Ongoing Concerns
The use of explosives and live wires poses a significant threat to both wildlife and humans. Authorities are working to identify the perpetrators and prevent further tragedies. The forest department has urged locals to report any suspicious activities to help curb illegal poaching and protect both animals and people.
