Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary in Uthai Thani has temporarily closed to tourists after a staff member died while on duty in what officials believe was a tiger attack.
Reports indicate that authorities went searching for Mr. Sakarin Wichachan, a government employee attached to the sanctuary, after he failed to show up at the designated meeting point for his youth camp assignment.
Upon inspecting his accommodation, they found only his phone and personal belongings, along with tracks resembling those of a wild animal dragging prey.
Later, they discovered his body in the Thap Sala stream, approximately 200 meters from the scene. The body showed signs of being eaten by a wild animal, and fresh tiger footprints were found nearby.
The closure was confirmed on 5 August by Sukhee Boonsang, director of the Wildlife Conservation Division. No date has been given for tourism within the sanctuary to resume.
Tiger identification under way
Mr Sukhee said authorities do not yet know which tiger was involved in the attack.
A tiger research team from Khao Nang Ram Wildlife Research Station is examining footage from camera traps to identify the animal and monitor its behaviour.
He said tigers would normally not approach Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary or attack people. However, tigers seen near communities may be old or injured animals that are unable to hunt their usual prey, although officials said further detailed information must be gathered in this case.
The sanctuary has instructed staff to avoid high-risk areas and has increased security and monitoring at its office, forest protection units and during field operations.
Five safety measures introduced
Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary has announced five measures following the fatal attack.
First, it has suspended tourism inside the sanctuary. Staff have also been warned to take extra care and not enter risk areas, while surveillance has been stepped up at vulnerable points around offices, ranger stations and work sites.
The sanctuary will install additional lighting at risk locations to improve safety. It will also publicise information to communities around the protected area, asking local people to cooperate in monitoring the situation.
Finally, officials will compile reports on developments for their superiors, who will consider what further assistance or operational support may be needed.
The measures underline that the closure is not simply a restriction on sightseeing. It is part of a wider effort to protect sanctuary personnel and nearby communities while researchers establish the identity and movements of the tiger believed to be involved.
Picture courtesy of Daily News
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6 August 2026
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