Police arrest Betul farmer after explosive fodder kills 2 cows:5 cattle critically injured; wildlife safety angle under probe

An incident in Betul district has shocked humanity. In Koyalari village of Shahpur block, cows that came to drink water at a pond reportedly ate bombs hidden in flour balls. The explosives went off as they chewed them, blowing apart their jaws. Two cows died on the spot after struggling in pain, while four cows and a bull were left critically injured. Their lower jaws are shattered and hanging, leaving them unable to eat or drink. Doctors say their condition is extremely serious, with very low chances of survival. See the pictures Explosive-filled shells found near field Accused arrested from Itarsi Police investigation revealed that the field where the explosives were found belonged to Rakesh Chauhan, a resident of Koyalari. After the incident, the accused, along with his family, had fled the village. Police arrested him from Itarsi railway station. During interrogation, the accused confessed that he had kept these ‘pig killer bombs’ to kill wild boars. He stated that, frustrated by crop damage, he had stuck flour and lentils on the gunpowder-filled balls so that the pigs would eat them. A case has been registered against the accused under the Explosives Act and Section 325 of the BNS. Preliminary investigation has not revealed any criminal record against him so far. Jaws severely torn, stones lodged up to the throat Surjeet Singh, Deputy Director of the Veterinary Department, stated that the explosion occurred while the cattle were chewing in their mouths. The bombs were filled with gunpowder and small stones, which severely tore their jaws. According to doctors, the lower jaws of many animals are completely broken. Stones have reached their food pipes. As a result, they are unable to eat or drink. The situation is fatal, and the next 48 hours are crucial. Forest department to also investigate DFO North Naveen Garg said that the case will also be investigated from a wildlife angle. The incident site is in an area adjacent to the Satpura Tiger Reserve, therefore, instructions have been given to increase surveillance around all water sources and water holes. Threat to forests and wildlife as well Experts have called such explosive fodder ‘fodder bombs’. Adil Khan, president of Satpura Biodiversity Conservation Society, said that such bombs in areas adjacent to forests are a major threat to wildlife as well. He informed that in summer, animals like wild boars, deer, nilgai, bears and leopards come near water sources in search of water. In such a situation, this explosive can take the life of any wild animal. DFO said – investigation will be done from wildlife angle Naveen Garg, DFO North of the Forest Department, said that ‘This matter will also be investigated from a wildlife angle.’ SDO Forest Uttam Singh Shastiya said that the incident site is adjacent to the forest and this area is considered part of the movement of wild animals. The boundary of Satpura Tiger Reserve is located here. He admitted that if such explosive fodder is being used, it could pose a serious threat to wildlife as well. Instructions have been given to investigate and monitor all water sources and water holes in the forest. Dangerous for humans too Experts have warned that these explosive spheres wrapped in flour could appear like common food items to children or villagers, and if anyone tampers with them, a major accident could occur. SP Virendra Jain stated that a case has been registered against the accused under sections of the Explosives Act and BNS. The investigation into the matter is ongoing.