Miscreants have killed a wild elephant and removed its tusks and nails in a protected forest in the Chechuria area of Jaldi Range in Banshkhali upazila of Chattogram.

The incident came to light on Wednesday morning when locals spotted the dead elephant and informed forest department officials.

Abdullah Al Mamun, Divisional Forest Officer of the Chattogram South Forest Division, said the male elephant, approximately 7 to 8 years old, had several injury marks on its body.

"The elephant may have been killed with a sharp weapon. There are multiple stab wounds on its back and chest. The miscreants cut off the elephant’s tusks and nails. It may have been killed around two days ago. Legal action will be taken in this regard,” he said.

According to the Wildlife Department, over 100 wild elephants have died in the Chattogram region over the past decade. Of these, 53 died of old age or natural causes, while at least 17 died in accidents.

The causes of the remaining deaths could not be determined. So far, 18 cases have been filed in connection with elephant killings.