A 12-year-old boy in India has died after being attacked by a crocodile while washing his hands in a river with his uncle. The incident occurred on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at approximately 6pm in Baundi, a village in Uttar Pradesh state.
Attack Details
The victim, identified only as Sunil, had been helping his uncle, Vijay Raj Singh, plant rice seedlings in a nearby paddy field earlier that afternoon. On their way home to Tikuri, they stopped at the Ghaghara River to wash off the day's dirt. As they stood at the water's edge, a crocodile suddenly emerged, seized Sunil by the leg, and dragged him into the current.
Sunil struggled to free himself while his uncle screamed for help. Nearby farmers and villagers rushed to the scene and threw bricks, stones, and sticks at the reptile in an attempt to make it release the boy. However, the crocodile overcame their efforts and dragged Sunil into deeper water, disappearing from sight.
Recovery and Aftermath
Local residents launched a desperate search using long bamboo poles to probe the murky water. They eventually located Sunil and recovered his body at around 10pm that same night. Authorities later confirmed that Sunil had suffered catastrophic injuries to his right leg and abdomen.
Sunil, who had lost both of his parents several years ago, is survived by a brother and two sisters. State authorities have announced compensation of 400,000 INR (approximately £3,091) for the grieving family.
Broader Context
This tragedy highlights the daily dangers faced by families in the region who rely on the Ghaghara River for their daily needs, despite the known presence of crocodiles. Hundreds of villagers have no alternative but to use the waterway for washing, bathing, and other essential activities.
