Rourkela: A forest official of Kuanrmunda range of Rourkela Forest Division was on killed in an elephant attack here on Saturday night, police said on Sunday.
The deceased was identified as Pati Bebhar.
The incident occurred when Bebhar was trying to drive away an elephant herd that had strayed into the village.
Alleging inefficiency and inaction on part of the forest officials, the villagers detained the body and gheraoed some forest officials.
The villagers alleged that forest officials are not responding to their repeated pleas.
“Due to their negligency, elephant herds are frequently seen roaming near the human habitats,” a villager said and added that it is not possible for a single person to drive away an elephant herd.
Keeping in view the palpable tension, administrative officials rushed to the spot to took stock of the situation.
The villagers handed over the body for post-mortem after the top officers of the forest department assured due compensation to the family members of the deceased.
