Bhubaneswar, May 6: The Forest Department on Wednesday arrested three persons for allegedly teasing and assaulting elephants in the Patna Range area of Keonjhar district, highlighting growing concerns over human-wildlife conflict in the region.

The accused have been identified as Deepak Mohanta, Dusmanta Behera, and Rakesh Mohanta. According to Patna Range Divisional Forest Officer Banabihari Sardar, incidents of human-elephant interaction are frequently reported from Jhumpura and Saharpada areas, where elephant movement is common.

Officials said that despite repeated advisories, some local youths were found engaging in risky and unlawful behaviour by chasing elephants, teasing them, and even assaulting the animals with sticks. Such actions not only endanger wildlife but also pose serious risks to human safety.

The incident came to light after videos showing the harassment were widely circulated on social media, prompting swift intervention by forest authorities. Acting on the footage, a joint team of the divisional enforcement unit and Patna Range officials launched a targeted operation and apprehended the accused.

During the crackdown, officials seized a drone camera, three mobile phones, and a motorcycle allegedly used in the incident. Authorities suspect the drone may have been used to track or film the elephants.

The Forest Department has initiated further investigation and stated that strict legal action will be taken under relevant wildlife protection laws.

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