Burnt elephant dies after delayed rescue; activists demand arrests

A 55-year-old wild elephant that suffered severe burn injuries at Seeppukulama succumbed to death around 4.00 p.m. yesterday, despite treatment by the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC), sparking outrage among wildlife activists and renewed calls for accountability.

- BY IFHAM NIZAM

Wildlife Conservation Publicity Director Hasini Harishchandra told The Island that the injured elephant had gone missing for a period after the incident and was later located in another area, after which veterinary treatment was initiated.

“We were providing saline and other medication, but the injuries were extensive,” she said, confirming that the elephant died while under treatment.