ACTING swiftly after the human death on Tuesday in a tiger attack, the Forest Department successfully captured the problem tiger within 24 hours. On Tuesday, a farm labourer named Sangita Gopichand Wagare (46) was killed in a tiger attack near Pipriya village close to forest fringes. Immediately, Forest teams came in action and initiated emergency response measures and intensive monitoring of the area.

 

Based on pugmark analysis, camera trap data, and detailed field observations, the tiger TUI-08 was identified as the suspected animal involved in the incident. It is pertinent to mention that TUI-08 has a known history as a habitual offender, with multiple previous incidents of livestock depredation. The said tiger was also found responsible for a fatal human attack on October 28, 2025 at Jhinjeriya village, resulting in the death of Imala Kashinath Invate, and another fatal incident on December 5, 2025 at Moudi, in which Ashok Ukey lost his life.

 

Considering the recurring threat to human life and property, a special operation for the capture of the tiger was launched under the supervision and guidance of Akshay Gajbhiye, Field Director, PTR. The operation was successfully conducted by a dedicated team comprising Pooja Limbgaonkar, ACF (APU); Vivek Rajurkar, RFO (East Pench); Jayesh Tayde, RFO (Chorbauli); Dr Sujith Kolangath, Veterinary Doctor, WRTC Gorewada; Shrikant Dhoble, Biologist, Pench Tiger Reserve, along with experienced field staff of PTR. After sustained tracking and coordinated efforts, the suspected tiger TUI-08 was safely captured on Wednesday.