A male wild elephant from Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary has been found dead under unexplained circumstances in a rubber plantation in Bueng Kan Province, prompting authorities to order an urgent necropsy. Officials confirmed there were no visible signs of injury, raising concerns about the cause of death. The discovery has led to immediate coordination between park authorities and veterinary teams to determine what happened. Get today's headlines by email Villagers in Ban Phu Ngern, Village No. 10, Ban Tong Subdistrict, Seka District, discovered the elephant’s body on 18 March 2026. The animal, estimated to be a 10–15-year-old male, was found lying on its side at the base of a rubber tree around 700 metres from the sanctuary boundary. Local officials, including district chief Mr Itthipol Chantanun, assigned livestock and wildlife officers to investigate the scene. Mr Panuwatch Chaibandit, the district livestock officer, and Mr Wisanu Kumpao, head of the sanctuary, led the initial response alongside forest protection units from Tham Phra, Don Siad and Chan Nae. While examining the area, officials reported hearing other wild elephants nearby, prompting a rapid response team to drive them back into the forest for safety. No immediate cause of death was identified during the preliminary inspection. Authorities from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation have emphasised strict adherence to procedures in handling the case. Veterinary teams from Protected Area Regional Office 10 (Udon Thani) have been called in to conduct a full necropsy and collect tissue samples for laboratory analysis. Officials stated that determining whether the death was natural or unnatural remains a priority. The carcass is being prepared for transport back to Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary, where a detailed examination will take place. If the findings indicate an unnatural cause, officials have confirmed that strict legal action will follow in accordance with regulations. Scientific procedures will also guide the eventual burial of the animal. Thairath reported that further updates are expected once laboratory results are completed and reviewed by relevant authorities. The outcome of the investigation will play a key role in shaping any enforcement measures and future wildlife protection efforts in the area. Picture courtesy of ThaiRath Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thairath 20 Mar 2026
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