The Jakarta Post, Jakarta | Mon, 02/07/2011
Herds of elephants have reportedly damaged crops in several areas across Aceh Jaya regency, with the latest incident in the village of Cot Dulang, Jaya District, and oil palm plantations of Blang Mon Lueng village in Sampoiniet district.
Aceh Jaya Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Agency chief T Rusdi said that aside from damaging oil palm plantations, the herds had also destroyed one hectare of rice ready for harvest.
"This is distressing local residents since they do not know how to handle the herd comprising around four elephants, which are a protected species," he said.
Blang Mon Lueng village chief Helmiadi and Sapeukheun Farmer's Association chief Tgk Jamaluddin said the local farmers had become afraid to watch over their crops.
"Previously we were concerned about boars attacking our crops, but now the elephants have turned out to be a much bigger and more terrifying threat," Jamaluddin said, as quoted by tribunnews.com.
"The government should not only protect the animals, but also think about our livelihoods that are currently under threat from this protected species.", Helmiadi said.
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