Four cows were killed in a suspected wild animal attack at Barapole-Makkandam in Ayyankunnu panchayat, Iritty on Friday (January 9, 2026) morning, triggering fear and anger among residents in the forest fringe area.
The incident occured when the cows, belonging to Rakesh Pullattu Kunnel, were tethered inside a cowshed at his farm. Mr. Kunnel and local residents suspect that the attack may have been perpetrated by a tiger or leopard..
For Mr. Kunnel, who is suffering from a kidney ailment, cattle rearing was the sole source of livelihood. Residents alleged that despite repeatedly alerting authorities about the presence of wild animals, including leopards, no preventive measures were taken.
Locals blamed the Forest department’s negligence for the loss of cattle, recalling a similar incident two months ago when a cow was killed by a wild animal. There have also been reports of missing pet dogs in the area.
Sunny Joseph, MLA, district panchayat president Binoy Kurian, panchayat president Mini Viswanathan, Forest department officials visited the farmer.
The Forest department has decided to install camera traps in the area.
Published – January 09, 2026 04:18 pm IST
