Chinnakanal (Idukki): On the second day of Mission ‘Arikomban’, the rice-loving tusker ‘Arikomban’, which has been terrorising the residents of Chinnakanal and neighbouring areas, was reportedly spotted near Sinkukandam Cement Palam. Currently, the elephant is moving towards Suryanelli region and the darting team is waiting for the opportunity to tranquilise the animal.

Earlier on Friday, the jumbo was located at Sankarapandian Mettu around sunset, but the pre-dawn mission was suspended after nine hours of search. 

“Arikomban is under the surveillance of the task force. The mission will be launched after arriving at a suitable location and a tranquiliser dart will be shot,” said Chief Veterinary Officer Arun Zachariah, who has been leading the mission.

Meanwhile, a Rapid Response Team (RRT) has been deployed to carry out inspections at Anayirankal Dam. Four ‘kumki’ elephants (captive pachyderms used in operations for trapping and capturing other elephants) are also involved in the mission. 

Furthermore, the forest department has not revealed where the jumbo will be taken after its capture. The details of the operation are kept confidential as per court order.

Arikomban, named for its habit of raiding ration shops and houses for rice (Ari), has killed 7 people and destroyed 31 buildings in the locality over the past three months, according to the forest department.