Explosive trap meant for wild boar severely injures cow in Keonjhar

In a shocking incident linked to alleged illegal hunting, a cow was critically injured after an explosive device, reportedly planted to trap wild boar, detonated in Darikhala village under Ghasipura police limits in Odisha’s Keonjhar district on Wednesday.

According to local sources, miscreants had allegedly concealed a bomb inside a food packet and placed it in a forested area near the Atei Reserve Forest to lure wild animals. The explosive device was reportedly intended to target wild boar as part of unlawful hunting activities in the region.

However, instead of a wild animal, a cow strayed into the area and consumed the food packet. The device exploded while the animal was feeding, causing severe injuries to its mouth and face. The blast left the cow with grievous wounds, with significant damage to its jaw and facial region.

Hearing the explosion, villagers rushed to the spot and immediately arranged for veterinary assistance. At the time of reporting, the cow’s condition was stated to be critical.

The incident has triggered anger among local residents, who alleged that illegal hunting has been rampant in and around the Atei Reserve Forest for a long time. They claimed that despite repeated complaints, authorities have failed to effectively curb such activities.

Environmental activists strongly condemned the act, describing it as both cruel and hazardous. They demanded strict action against those responsible for planting explosive devices and called for enhanced patrolling and surveillance in forest areas to prevent similar incidents.

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Police from Ghasipura, along with forest officials, have initiated an investigation to identify the culprits. Authorities are also working to trace the source of the explosive material and ensure that no other such devices have been planted in the area.