Bahraich Crocodile Attack: 55-Year-Old Woman Killed, Body Recovered From Saryu River

A 55-year-old woman was killed in a crocodile attack in Uttar Pradesh's Bahraich district, with her body recovered nearly 15 hours after she went missing, officials said on Sunday, July 5. The incident occurred near the Saryu River and has heightened concerns among residents living in villages along the riverbank, where crocodile sightings have been reported previously.

The victim, identified as Ketki, a resident of Mohkampurwa hamlet in Chapharia village under Sujauli police station, had left home around 6 pm on Saturday to attend her niece's wedding in the nearby Hazaripurwa village. She did not return home after the ceremony, prompting her family and local residents to begin a search.

Body Recovered After Villagers Spot Crocodile

According to officials, family members and villagers searched for Ketki throughout the night.

Around 9 am on Sunday, villagers spotted a crocodile holding a woman's body in its jaws in the Saryu River near Rampurwa village, around three kilometres from her home.

Villagers shouted and threw stones at the crocodile, forcing it to release the body before it retreated into the river. Local residents then entered the water and recovered the body.

Police Suspect Attack Near Riverbank

Police said one of the woman's legs had been completely eaten, while the other was badly injured. Bite marks were also found on her face and other parts of her body.

Station House Officer Prakash Chandra Sharma said the woman may have gone near the river to relieve herself when the crocodile attacked her. The body has been sent for a post-mortem examination.

Police, revenue officials and the forest department reached the spot after receiving information and began further investigation into the incident.

The attack has caused fear among residents living in villages along the Saryu River, where crocodiles have been seen in the past. Local authorities are expected to assess the area and take precautionary measures to reduce the risk of further encounters.

The Saryu River and adjoining water bodies in parts of Bahraich have recorded crocodile sightings over the years, particularly during the monsoon season when water levels rise and reptiles move closer to inhabited areas. Forest officials routinely advise residents to avoid riverbanks, especially during early morning and evening hours, and to remain vigilant in areas known for crocodile activity.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 06, 2026 10:41 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).