Jharkhand, Jan 8: A rogue elephant has caused terror along the Odisha–Jharkhand border, killing six people and injuring several others in a series of attacks over the past week.

The latest incident occurred on Tuesday night in Mundasahitalo village, Babadia, where the elephant entered the home of Sanatan Meral, 52, and his family. Sanatan, his wife Joleka, 50, their 8-year-old daughter, and 5-year-old son Damayanti were killed. Jaypal and Sushila, other family members, survived, though Sushila sustained injuries while fleeing.

The elephant also attacked other nearby villages. Gurucharan Laguri, 48, was fatally struck while sleeping, and 22-year-old Mangal Bobang also died from injuries. Several others, including Gomia Laguri and Hindu Laguri, were seriously injured and are receiving treatment.

After wreaking havoc in Mundasahitalo and Ulisahitalo, the elephant moved to Dududbasatalo in Badapasia and later reached Jagannathpur Ranger Kalaisah, damaging two houses. Villagers in Sialyoda village were also attacked, with Tipria Hembram and her relative Khurpa Hembram critically injured. Both are currently admitted to TISCO Hospital, Nuamunda.

Local forest officials, along with a special team from West Bengal, attempted to tranquilize the elephant but were unsuccessful. The elephant reportedly hides in the jungle during the day and emerges after 10 PM, causing fear and panic in surrounding villages.

In total, the rampaging elephant has claimed 15 lives in the past week. Authorities are urging villagers to remain indoors at night and are actively monitoring the situation.