Crime Authorities to Prosecute Suspect in Shooting of Khao Yai Wild Elephant ‘Plai Biang Lek’

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation has announced on 23 June, its intention to pursue legal action against an individual suspected of shooting a wild elephant known as Plai Biang Lek(also nicknamed Nong Ngong Thong) in Khao Yai National Park.

 

According to Mr. Atthapol Charoenchansa, Director-General of the department, the incident occurred on 19 June at around 17:00 near Village 5, Ban Nong Makrut, in Nong Nam Daeng Subdistrict, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima. A local volunteer group working to deter wild elephants reported the event to park authorities.

 

The group encountered the well-known wild elephant foraging near private farmland. The landowner allegedly fired five shotgun rounds, both into the air and at the ground, in an attempt to scare the animal away. The volunteers present documented the incident with photographs and collected used shotgun shells as evidence.

 

The following day, members of the volunteer team observed two suspicious wounds near the elephant’s hindquarters. These injuries raised concerns that Plai Biang Lek may have been struck by gunfire. Park officials and veterinary staff are currently investigating the cause of the wounds and expect to confirm whether they are indeed gunshot-related within the day.

 

Park authorities are in the process of compiling witness statements and physical evidence in preparation for legal proceedings.

 

A source close to the investigation confirmed that the suspect has been identified in photographs holding a shotgun. The individual is reportedly a relative of a local Subdistrict Administrative Organisation (SAO) chairman. Officials have in their possession both photographic and ballistic evidence linking the suspect to the shooting.

 

The Department has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting wildlife and ensuring justice in accordance with environmental protection laws.

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-24

 

 

 

[khunPer]

A difficult balance with wild large animals sharing living-space with humans.