Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 16 (NationPress) Four days have elapsed since reports emerged regarding the disappearance of two historically significant elephant tusks from the secure confines of the Pangode military camp located in the heart of the state capital. Investigators have yet to achieve a significant breakthrough in this perplexing case.

These tusks, valued at approximately Rs 2 crore on the international market, were preserved at the Officers’ Club as a part of the unit's heritage collection.

Originally entrusted by the then state government in 1929, they had been safeguarded for nearly a century.

The alarm was raised following a DJ event held at the Officers’ Mess of the Madras Regiment, sparking concern within both defence and police circles.

Despite extensive searches, the tusks remain missing.

Authorities have drained a nearby pond, cleared surrounding wooded areas, and conducted thorough combing operations throughout the camp's premises.

Soldiers conducted internal inspections of the Officers’ Mess and adjacent facilities, yet no solid leads have surfaced.

Investigators assert that it is unlikely the tusks were removed from the camp, citing strict security protocols that govern entry and exit.

Weighing close to 100 kg, the artifacts' considerable mass and stringent security measures have led to suspicions that the theft may have required insider knowledge or assistance.

Fingerprints taken from the glass display case that once held the tusks are currently under analysis.

Samples from 20 personnel associated with the Officers’ Mess have been collected for potential matches.

However, officials warn that the presence of fingerprints alone does not imply guilt, as staff frequently handled the display area.

Eighteen individuals who entered the camp to organize the DJ event have also been interrogated.

CCTV footage is being examined to track movement before and after the event.

Investigators are looking into the possibility that the tusks were smuggled out alongside event management equipment.

A specialized team led by the Cantonment Assistant Commissioner is investigating the case, while senior city police officials oversee the ongoing efforts.

Authorities are also considering the existence of organized ivory smuggling networks, given the substantial international value of such artifacts.

Due to procedural limitations on police access within military installations, the investigation remains intricate.

As days pass without a clear lead, the mystery surrounding this heritage heist continues to deepen.