Man killed in suspected tiger attack in Malappuram; locals demand animal be shot

Malappuram, Kerala – A man was killed in a suspected tiger attack at Adayakkakundu in Kalikavu on Wednesday morning. The victim was identified as Abdul Gafoor, a resident of Kallamoola in Chokkadu.

The incident occurred around 6:30 am in a plantation located in the Ravuthan Kavu region of Adakkakundu, near an area commonly used for slaughter tapping. Gafoor was attacked while heading to the site for rubber tapping.

Eyewitness reports tiger dragged the victim

An eyewitness present during the attack reported that the tiger bit Gafoor and dragged him away. His body was later recovered in a nearly unclothed state, with his mundu found loosened.

Police suspect tiger involvement

Police, in their preliminary assessment, confirmed that Gafoor was killed by a tiger. They also noted that the area has previously witnessed multiple incidents of tigers preying on goats, indicating the regular presence of big cats in the vicinity.

South Divisional Forest Officer and DYSP have arrived at the site. A 25-member team led by Chief Veterinary Surgeon Dr. Arun Zachariah is expected to reach shortly. Authorities plan to install cameras at the location and have decided to bring in sniffer dogs for a detailed investigation.

Locals protest 

Meanwhile, locals have staged protests at the site, demanding that an order be issued to shoot and kill the tiger involved. They have also called for immediate financial assistance to be provided to the family of the deceased man.