Correspondent
WOKHA, JUN 3 (NPN): Amid concerns over rising African Swine Fever (ASF) cases, at least five dead pigs– including one stuffed in a rice bag– were found dumped at separate locations in Airfield Colony on Wednesday, prompting the Wokha Town Council (WTC) to launch an investigation. Four carcasses were found near a culvert, while another was recovered elsewhere, allegedly disposed of without following prescribed protocols.
The WTC strongly condemned the act, warning that improper disposal could accelerate ASF spread. Chairman Myingthungo Kikon called the incident “concerning and disheartening,” noting that awareness campaigns on ASF prevention and safe disposal had already been conducted.
He said preliminary findings suggest the carcasses likely did not come from household piggery units but possibly from imported pigs at slaughterhouses.
The council has previously surveyed and inspected local slaughterhouses, including verification of pig inventories, as part of ASF monitoring.
The WTC has begun an investigation and urged the responsible person to report within two days, warning of strict action including cancellation of trade permits for illegal disposal.
Residents were also asked to contact the council if they lack proper disposal facilities, with assurances of guidance on using designated dumping sites.
Airfield Colony council chairman Vincent Shitiri also condemned the incident, calling it a serious public health concern that undermines community and government efforts to control ASF. Meanwhile, veterinary assistant surgeon Yanben Kikon said post-mortem examinations have been conducted and samples sent to Kohima and then Guwahati for lab testing to confirm the cause of death.
He cautioned that ASF and classical swine fever can spread rapidly if carcasses are not properly disposed of, noting the virus can survive in water for 60–90 days and in soil for 30–40 days. He advised deep burial or incineration with disinfectants and urged strict adherence to disposal protocols to prevent further spread.