KOCHI: In the report submitted by the High Range Circle Chief Conservator of the Forest Department, it is stated that Arikomban is partially blind in the right eye. The report submitted clarified the steps taken to capture Arikomban from Chinnakanal and transfer it to Periyar Tiger Sanctuary.

A two-day-old wound was found on the lower front of the trunk when Arikomban was captured. He may have been injured during the attempt to capture him. He was released into the forest after treatment. He was dropped in the inner forest, 18 km away from Kokara Gate in Periyar Tiger Sanctuary. Arikomban woke up from his slumber at 5.10 am on May 30. At 5.15 am he went to the deep forest. The forest department also explained that they are monitoring him with the help of a radio collar.

The High Court directed to prevent Arikomban from returning to the Chinnakanal region. The Forest Department has issued a report on the petitions filed by People for Animals in Thiruvananthapuram against the capture of Arikomban and its transfer to the elephant enclosure.