Tamil Nadu: In a major success, the Tamil Nadu forest department managed to capture the elusive rogue elephant named 'Arikomban' near Usilampatti town in Theni district on Monday. Previously, on April 29, the elephant was captured by the Kerala forest department from Chinnakanal in Idukki district and relocated to the Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR). A week ago, the tusker had ventured into Cumbum town, resulting in a tragic incident where a security officer lost his life after being hit by the elephant while riding his scooter. The capture of 'Arikomban' took place early Monday morning when it reached a banana farm near Usilampatti. For the past few days, a vigilant 75-member forest team, including three 'Kumki' elephants and veterinarians, had been on standby. Additionally, a five-member tribal group, specialized in tracking elephants, was deployed by the forest department over the past week. According to department sources, 'Arikomban' was tranquilized twice during the operation, with the assistance of three 'Kumki' elephants.
