Wild Elephant Attack in Putao Township Leaves Four Dead, Five Houses Destroyed

Pajau Media

April 18, 2025

In Mula Dee village, Putao Township, a wild elephant entered on April 17, causing the death of 4 villagers and the destruction of around 5 houses, according to accounts from local residents.

"Yesterday, two elderly women who went to the forest to collect leaves saw it in the bushes near the village. One of them was trampled and killed by the elephant—her body was completely crushed. At that time, the elephant's owners were notified, and soldiers were called in to shoot it. The soldiers arrived armed but left without firing," said a Putao local.

In the evening, the elephant entered Mula Dee village again, forcing most villagers to flee. However, some who couldn’t escape—elderly men and women, as well as mothers with infants—were harmed, resulting in further deaths.

"Today in the evening, the elephant suddenly came into the village, so everyone ran. Those who couldn’t escape were killed. Houses were also destroyed," the local added.

The elephant currently roaming near Mula Dee village is a female with her calf. Previously, it belonged to U Tay Za’s company in Putao, which used it for business purposes. It was sold after attacking its handlers, according to villagers.

Last year, wild elephants also entered villages along the Myitkyina-Putao road, including Sumpi Yang and Khin Du Yang, destroying homes. In that incident, the elephants were shot and killed.

Due to the current elephant’s presence near Mula Dee, villagers are afraid to go into the forest for work or food. They are urging authorities to quickly capture or subdue the animal.

News—Pilan U