In a somber discovery on February 18, Deputy Superintendent Pol. Lt. Somphot Plangam, from the Hua Hin Police Station in Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand, responded to a notification from Mr. Sarawut Luangprap, a 51-year-old palm plantation owner. Mr. Luangprap reported the grim finding of a deceased wild elephant near his palm grove in the vicinity of Moo 2, Fapratarn Village, Huay Sat Yai Subdistrict, Hua Hin District.
Upon receiving the report, authorities swiftly moved to the scene, including Mr. Somjet Jantana, Director of the 3rd Conservation Area Office in Petchaburi, and Dr. Sakulpong, a veterinarian from the same office. Additionally, the head of Kaeng Krachan National Park and border patrol police from the special forces unit collaborated in the investigation.
The incident unfolded when Mr. Luangprap detected an unusual odor emanating from the nearby stream, prompting him to investigate. His search led him to the distressing sight of a lifeless wild elephant submerged in the water, prompting him to alert the authorities. The collaborative efforts of the investigative team, consisting of officials from the conservation area office and border patrol police, were crucial in verifying the incident.
Mr. Sarawut Luangprap, the palm plantation owner, shared his account, revealing that the stench had prompted him to trace its source, ultimately leading to the unfortunate discovery. The preliminary steps involved the deployment of an excavator to dig a pit, the application of lime powder, and the proper burial of the elephant carcass, adhering to established protocols for such situations.
As investigations continue into this distressing incident, the collaboration between local authorities, conservation offices, and wildlife experts remains crucial for understanding the circumstances surrounding the tragic demise of the wild elephant in Hua Hin.
