Mananthavady: Tensions rose at the Pancharakolli base camp on Saturday as an angry mob confronted forest officials, protesting the delay in capturing the tiger that killed Radha (45), a tribal woman, on Friday. The mob demanded that the tiger be shot and killed rather than captured and relocated, citing a lack of faith in the forest department's assurances.

The altercation began shortly after Radha’s body was taken for burial, with locals gathering in large numbers at the camp office. "We have lost faith in the forest department," the protesters said, adding, "You promised jobs for the dependents of the victims killed in previous attacks, but most are still jobless. If you plan to take this tiger alive, you will have to kill us !" Discussions between the officials and the angry mob are ongoing.

Meanwhile, the forest department has confirmed that the tiger responsible for the attack has been located. Chief Conservator of Forests (North Zone) K S Deepa stated that images of the tiger had been captured on camera and were being analysed alongside archived data to confirm its identity. "The animal's identification will be finalised after the analysis," she said.

The Rapid Response Team has temporarily withdrawn from the massive combing operation after locating the tiger. Aerial searches using thermal drones have also been suspended to minimise disturbance to the animal. Five expert trackers remain in the jungle, monitoring the tiger’s movements from a safe distance.

Chief Forest Veterinary Officer Dr Arun Zachariah, who is returning from a mission in Athirapilly, is expected to arrive at the base camp by noon. The details of the mission will be finalised once he joins the operation.

K S Deepa added that the priority remains to capture the tiger alive, as it has evaded cage traps laid in and around the area. "The animal is still roaming in the same vicinity, and we are strengthening patrolling to prevent further casualties," she said. The situation remains tense at the base camp as officials work to calm the protesters and prepare for the next phase of the operation.