Three women killed as tusker runs amok at temple festival

KOCHI: Three women were killed and several others injured when a tusker ran amok during festivities at Lord Subramania temple near Perumbavoor in Ernakulam district on Sunday night. The deceased have been identified as Nani (65), Thankamma (55) and Indira (60).

The elephant's mahout was seriously injured.

There were seven elephants taking part in the festivities. At least 1000 people had gathered at the temple complex when the pachyderms were brought and a tusker ran amok, police said.

One of the victims died en route to hospital.

The injured have been admitted to various hospitals.

Seven women have been hospitalised at the Kolencherry Medical College Hospital, police said.

Following the incident, the temple has been cleared and all festivities stopped, Saju Paul, local MLA, said.