Wayanad, Kerala: A wild elephant was found dead in a pond at Cheengode, near the forest border, on Wednesday. The elephant had reportedly instilled fear among residents in the Neikkuppa area over the past several days.

Locals said the same elephant had been regularly venturing into Neikkuppa and nearby areas for nearly two weeks.

The elephant reportedly entered human settlements skilfully through a trap gate set up along the forest boundary. Farmers nicknamed the animal “Kuttikkomban” (tiny tusker) due to its dwarf size and repeated disturbances in the farming belt.

Unlike other cases of human-elephant conflict, the tusker had reportedly developed a peculiar habit of swallowing soap and soap powder stored in kitchens and bathrooms of houses it broke into.

On its most recent visit, the elephant reportedly damaged a septic tank by trampling on it. It also broke dog and chicken coops, a rubber smokehouse, and water tanks across several homes. Damage to agricultural crops and vehicles was also reported.

Post-mortem conducted, inspection underway

A veterinary team led by the Assistant Forest Veterinary Officer conducted the post-mortem. A team of forest officials visited the site and launched a further inspection into the inciden