Bokaro: Four people were killed and more than 180 others were injured after a swarm of wild hornets attacked in Giridih’s Gawan block over the past three weeks, triggering fear among villagers and raising concerns over the absence of a coordinated response to the unusual attacks.More than 50 victims have so far sought treatment at the Gawan Community Health Centre, doctors said. Officials and residents have identified the insects as hornets. The exact species, however, is still being examined.Giridih DFO Manish Tiwari confirmed the deaths and said, “Hornets do not come under the wild animal category, hence the forest department cannot provide compensation. But these attacks are unusually aggressive, and the reason needs to be studied.” Meanwhile, Giridih DC Ramnivas Yadav said that they were looking into the matter.The deceased have been identified as govt school teacher Devendra Singh (58), who died on Sept 2, Kaleshwar Yadav (80) of Siri, who died on Sept 7, Dhaneshwar Yadav (75) of Serua, who died on Sept 13, and Sadik Mian (75) of Pihra, who died on Sept 15.Devendra’s son, Jeevan Kumar Singh, said his father came under attack while he had gone to bring him home from school. “The swarm suddenly attacked him. The hornets stung him from head to toe. When we reached the spot after receiving his call, they attacked us too,” he said.He said the insects appeared extremely aggressive and difficult to remove. Devendra’s nephew Chandan Kumar Singh said several hornets had to be removed from the victim’s body after he was brought home.Another deceased Kaleshwar was attacked while visiting his field and was initially treated at Gawan CHC before being referred for further treatment, but he later died. Dhaneshwar was attacked while grazing goats in a forested area, his son Mahendra said.Gawan CHC doctor Dr Shahanshah Ahmed said around 50 to 60 people had approached the facility after hornet attacks. “We do not know the exact species. Patients reported severe burning, swelling and itching at the sting sites. Those in serious condition were referred to Giridih Sadar Hospital,” he said.Gawan forest ranger Anil Kumar said the insects might have migrated from another area and could possibly be Asian giant hornets. Local residents said the attacks have created fear, with many reluctant to venture into fields and forests. Officials said the species identification and reasons behind the unusual behaviour require further investigation.
