Accident Tragic Elephant Attack Claims Woman’s Life in Surat Thani

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Photo via MGR Online

 

A tragic encounter with a wild elephant claimed the life of a 63-year-old woman, Wanna, in the southern Thai province of Surat Thani. Travelling with her son, Nanthaphop, through a forest on a motorcycle, they were suddenly attacked by the elephant in the Thap Nok Forest.

 

Following an urgent alert by Nanthaphop, who sustained injuries, officers from Khirirat Nikhom Police Station, along with rangers and rescuers, rushed to the scene. Unfortunately, the elephant had already left by their arrival.

 

Nanthaphop and his late mother were transported to Vibhavadi Hospital, where he is now in stable condition. As they were returning from their rubber plantation, located deep within the forest, the unexpected encounter led to his mother being fatally trampled.

 

In response to this distressing incident, Atthaphon Charoenchansa, Director of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, has directed Khlong Yan Wildlife Sanctuary officials to provide compensation and support for Wanna’s funeral.

 

The rescue operation faced significant challenges, with MGR Online reporting delays due to the rugged terrain and lack of phone signal. It took over five hours to transport the victims to medical care.

 

In another recent incident, a wild elephant was spotted in Thap Lan National Park, Prachin Buri, causing damage to crops while foraging for food. Local authorities were alerted by residents after more than 100 elephants were seen near Wang Ai Pong Community.

 

Rangers have since been using smoke to deter elephants from residential areas and are monitoring movements to safeguard residents. These incidents underscore ongoing tensions between wildlife and human populations in these regions.

 

With the Department of National Parks stepping in, support and preventative measures are being prioritised to ensure safety and minimise future conflicts.

 

The local authorities continue to work with communities to develop strategies that protect both residents and wildlife across Thailand. As these issues persist, there is a clear need for effective management and community engagement to prevent further tragedies.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-08