Three people were arrested after a wild elephant died from severe burn injuries sustained when villagers attempted to chase it away using fire, police said.
The 40-year-old elephant, known as Amba Bo, was found critically injured on Monday morning lying in the front yard of a house near the Abagaha Wela junction in the Seepukulama area. Wildlife veterinarians from the Anuradhapura Pandulagama division rushed to treat the animal, but it succumbed to its injuries later.
Mihinthalaya police said the incident occurred on Dec. 14, when villagers tried to drive the elephant away using flaming torches. One resident allegedly set fire directly to the animal’s body, causing extensive burn injuries.
Three suspects were arrested in connection with the incident, police said.
“This elephant has several bullets in its body,” said Ven. Pahiyangala Ananda Sagara Thero, condemning the actions of those involved. “It endured immense suffering and came in search of food. What was done to this elephant is tragic and inhumane. Even nature weeps for it,” he said.
Wildlife officials said the elephant had been ill for nearly three months and had received veterinary treatment during that period. Despite its condition, residents had largely tolerated and cared for Amba Bo, which frequently roamed near homes in search of food.
Ven. Valahangunawawe Dammarathana Thero said the government must take greater responsibility for protecting wild elephants, describing them as a national treasure. He urged authorities to take concrete action rather than issuing statements.
A postmortem examination was conducted on Tuesday by wildlife officers from the Anuradhapura Pandulagama division. Religious rites were later performed by villagers following the elephant’s death. (Newswire)