Baripada, June 1: Panic gripped residents of Kumudabadi village under the Dudhiani Forest Range in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district after a man was allegedly killed by a tiger and his body partially devoured.

The deceased has been identified as Sadhu Naik, a resident of Basantpur village under Jashipur police station limits. According to reports, Sadhu had ventured into the nearby forest on Sunday morning to collect fodder branches for his goats. However, he failed to return home, prompting concern among family members and villagers.

On Monday morning, locals discovered two blood-soaked legs and the victim's lungi inside the forest. Suspecting a tiger attack, they immediately alerted the authorities.

Police personnel and Forest Department officials rushed to the spot and launched an investigation. Preliminary findings indicate that the victim was attacked and killed by a tiger, which partially consumed the body before leaving the area.

The remains are being recovered and will be sent for post-mortem examination. Officials have intensified surveillance in the forest area and are continuing their investigation into the incident.

The tragic incident has sparked fear among residents of nearby villages, who are demanding enhanced safety measures and regular monitoring of wildlife movement in the region.