An urgent investigative panel has been set up to determine the reasons for the death of a wild elephant during its transport from Khon Kaen to Loei province, according to a statement from the National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department.
The department expressed deep sorrow over the death of the elephant, named ‘Hu Phap’ because of its folded ears, during its relocation to the Phu Luang Wild Elephant Food Restoration Project area in Loei.
In a statement issued today, the department said the incident has caused widespread sadness and public concern.
The animal, estimated to be between 15 and 20 years old, originally lived in Phu Luang Wildlife Sanctuary in Loei, before wandering into agricultural areas in Phu Wiang district of Khon Kaen. The animal frequently approached communities and was involved in fatal attacks on local residents.
The department said the relocation was carried out under a temporary protection order, issued by the Khon Kaen Administrative Court to ensure public safety in high-risk areas and to return it to an area with suitable natural food sources.
The order is legally binding, and failure to comply could have constituted a contempt of court and possible criminal liability, while also leaving residents exposed to continued risk.
According to the statement, the operation was prepared in line with international standards. A multi-agency command centre was set up, with experienced veterinarians and animal handlers deployed.
Sedative dosages were calculated based on the elephant’s weight and physical condition. Vital signs were closely monitored throughout the process and the animal was positioned to reduce pressure on the respiratory system.
During transport, however, the elephant suddenly suffered a severe physiological crisis.
Veterinarians immediately halted the convoy and provided emergency treatment, including opening the airway, administering intravenous fluids and controlling body temperature, but to no avail.
An initial assessment indicates that the death may have been related to choking, though a full necropsy is required to confirm the exact cause.
The department said it is committed to transparency and accountability and has appointed a panel of experts to undertake a systematic review of every step of the operation.
It added that human-elephant conflict remains a major challenge, requiring the utmost caution, and that lessons from this incident will be used to improve future practices to protect both public safety and wildlife welfare.
