Farmer killed in predator attack in Tadoba buffer

Chandrapur: A farmer was killed in suspected tiger attack in the forests of Moharli (buffer) range under Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve.
The victim, Pitambar Tore (65) of Moharli village, had entered the forest to collect bamboo for household use on Monday. When he did not return home in the night, his family members along with foresters went in search of him the next day.
Tore’s body was discovered in compartment no. 874 on Tuesday. Sources claimed that Tore was attacked from behind while he was carrying bamboo bundle on his head and died of excessive bleeding.
Officials ratified that predator had not eaten the body but they weren’t sure which animal attacked Tore. “Usually, tiger catches the prey by its neck but Tore had injuries on the back. We have recovered tiger pugmark from the spot, but cause of death is yet to be confirmed,” said an official.
Tadoba officials have paid Rs 50,000 ex-gratia aid to the kin of Tore.
It is 34th human kill in predator attacks in the district this year. Tigers have killed 29 persons, while four have died in leopard attacks. One person was killed in elephant attack.