A 20-year-old male elephant used for tourist rides killed its mahout and injured an Omani tourist after becoming agitated in Phang Nga on 27 June.

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The fatal attack occurred in Moo 2, Song Phraek subdistrict, Mueang district, after the elephant, named Plai Thongkham, reportedly became distressed during a tour carrying two foreign tourists. Authorities said the elephant attempted to enter a stream, but its mahout used a hook to prevent it from doing so.

According to witnesses, the elephant became aggressive, throwing one of the tourists from its back. The injured tourist, a 33-year-old man from Oman, was taken to Phang Nga Hospital for treatment.

The elephant then ran about 100 metres from the stream before throwing its mahout, 32-year-old Chaiyan Pradapsri from Prasat district, Surin province, to the ground. It subsequently attacked him with its trunk and feet, causing fatal injuries. Officials said he suffered extensive fractures and a broken neck.

Following the attack, Plai Thongkham fled into nearby forest. Local officials, including Song Phraek subdistrict headman Boonrong Sawatdichai, police from Thung Kha Ngok Police Station, officers from the Phang Nga Provincial Livestock Office, and forensic physician Dr Montri Thanakit attended the scene to investigate.

Witness accounts suggested the elephant’s aggression may have been triggered after being prevented from entering the water, although authorities have not confirmed the exact cause of the attack. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Phang Nga Provincial Livestock Office has assembled a team equipped with tranquiliser guns and sedatives to locate and subdue Plai Thongkham. Officials said the elephant remains agitated, raising concerns that it could pose a further risk to people in the area if not safely captured.

Pictures courtesy of Daily News

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 28 June 2026

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20 years of being beaten, poked, prodded, and given orders by a person you could crush like a bug. Then one day you just want to go for a dip and that munchkin on your back starts hollering and jabbing the sensitive part of your ear with that metal goad they use. Long may you run, dear elephant. I hope you find a group, the sweetest fodder and the best swimming holes.

I didn't realize they still used mature male elephants for such rides, or at least didn't when they were in musk. Being cruelly hurt with a metal hook must be a miserable existence.

8 minutes ago, jacko45k said:

I didn't realize they still used mature male elephants for such rides, or at least didn't when they were in musk. Being cruelly hurt with a metal hook must be a miserable existence.

An elephant in musth can't be approached, much less ridden. It would be a terrifying sight to behold within stamping and crushing distance.