World · Sri Lanka Bureau
Tusker found dead with tusk severed in Sri Lankan forest
Authorities have launched an investigation after wildlife officials discovered a dead elephant in a forested area of Kahatagasdigiliya with its left tusk removed. The carcass was found Sunday near a paddy field adjacent to Kayagollewa tank.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The Department of Wildlife Conservation confirmed that officers discovered the tusker's remains in a forested area within the Meeminnawala Grama Niladhari Division on Sunday. The elephant's left tusk had been cut and removed from the carcass, prompting immediate investigation by wildlife authorities.
The discovery was made in a forested zone bordering a paddy field near the Kayagollewa tank, an area that falls within the jurisdiction of local administrative divisions. Initial reports indicate the tusk was severed deliberately, though the exact circumstances surrounding the elephant's death remain under examination.
The incident marks the latest case involving elephant poaching and illegal ivory trafficking in Sri Lanka, where wild pachyderms face mounting threats from human activity and habitat encroachment. Wildlife conservation officials have not released additional details regarding the investigation or potential suspects at this stage.
The Department of Wildlife Conservation continues to investigate the matter and has appealed for public information that may assist authorities in identifying those responsible for the elephant's death and the tusk removal.