SWD Investigates Death Of Bornean Elephant In Kinabatangan River

KOTA KINABALU, Oct 3 (Bernama) -- The Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) is investigating the death of a Bornean elephant found in the Kinabatangan River, near the Angco Jaya Plantation and the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary.

State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the carcass, believed to have drifted downstream, was a male elephant standing approximately six feet tall and aged between 14 and 18 years.

"Based on the condition of the remains, it is believed to have died four to five days prior to inspection, with initial physical checks revealing several injuries alongside missing tusks.

"At this stage, we do not want to speculate on the circumstances surrounding the injuries, missing tusks or cause of death, as these matters require further investigation supported by evidence," he said in a statement today.

He said a post-mortem examination was conducted by SWD on Oct 1, with organ samples and stomach contents collected for laboratory analysis to determine the cause of death.

Jafry added that the department is also taking a statement from the individual who first reported the incident as part of ongoing inquiries.

"The state government views the matter with utmost seriousness and will enforce strict action under wildlife protection laws if any human involvement or legal violations are uncovered," he said.

He also urged members of the public with relevant information to come forward to assist investigations, while advising against premature speculation until scientific findings are finalised.

-- BERNAMA