Stage set for capture of Arikomban, the marauding rice-raiding tusker of Idukki

A massive Operation is all set to capture the marauding tusker that’s gained notoriety as Arikomban in Kerala’s Idukki district.

Arikomban or rice raider has reigned terror in Santhanpara and Chinnakkanal areas leading to massive protests by residents.

Arikomban strikes at ration shops and other places for rice.

A 26-member team led by Chief Veterinary Officer Arun Zachariah has also roped in kumkis (trained elephants to capture wild pachyderms) for the Operation.

The capture, however, has been stayed by the Kerala High Court following a petition that stated the procedure being adopted by the forest department is unscientific and cruel.

The court will decide on the matter on 29 March after which the team is likely to go ahead with the task of capturing Arikomban.