Social Media Outrage Leads to Arrests in Elephant Torture Case

COLOMBO (News 1st); Authorities have arrested three suspects in connection with the shocking abuse of a wild elephant in the Seepukulam area of Mihintale.

The suspects, aged 42, 48, and 50, are residents of Seepukulam and are expected to be produced before the Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court.

The incident came to light after a disturbing video showing the elephant being tormented went viral on social media, sparking outrage among wildlife lovers and conservationists.

Investigations revealed that the elephant—a male, approximately 9 feet tall and aged between 50 and 55 years—had suffered severe burns and a gunshot wound to its front left leg.

Despite efforts by veterinary officers from the Pandulagama Animal Hospital to treat the injured animal, the elephant succumbed to its injuries on December 16. 

A post-mortem examination confirmed that the death was caused by complications from kidney and liver failure, aggravated by severe burns and trauma.

The Department of Wildlife Conservation has launched a separate inquiry into the incident.