A wild elephant was found dead near a residential area in Ukhiya upazila of Cox’s Bazar on Tuesday (November 18). The carcass was spotted early in the morning at Khairati Para in Rajapalong Union. A team from the Forest Department later visited the site.

Locals said they discovered the dead elephant at dawn. As the day progressed, crowds of curious onlookers gathered around the animal. The Forest Department team reached the spot soon after being informed.

Officials from the Forest Department suspect that an illegal electric trap, likely set to protect crops, may have caused the elephant’s death. They believe the animal was electrocuted. Samples have been collected, and initial examinations are underway to confirm the exact cause of death.

Environmental activists said that human-elephant conflict is on the rise, but killing animals with electric traps is not a solution. Such traps pose danger not only to wildlife but also to nearby communities and the broader ecosystem.

Md Monirul Islam, Assistant Conservator of Forests (Teknaf & Ukhiya), said, “Illegal electric lines are one of the major reasons behind elephant deaths. Despite multiple letters issued from the Forest Department, the Power Division is not taking any action. We suspect today’s elephant died for the same reason. Once the test results arrive, legal action will be taken against those responsible following an investigation.”