A man working in a Chachoengsao rubber plantation was hospitalised after being attacked by a wild elephant during the night, prompting safety warnings.
Emergency services were called to the plantation near the border of Ban Thung Hiang and Ban Nangam villages in Sanam Chai Khet district today, September 23. The scene, cloaked in darkness, was fraught with danger as rescuers feared the elephant might return.
The victim, identified as 47 year old Suthat Panomkhet, was found injured with bruises across his body, a sore shoulder, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Rescuers administered first aid before rushing him to Sanam Chai Khet Hospital for further treatment.
Local officials said Suthat’s injuries were serious but not life-threatening.
“We had to evacuate him quickly as the elephant was still nearby.”
Supatwadee Kulsaree, chairman of the Tha Kradan Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, confirmed the incident after receiving a report from the village head. He urged residents to remain alert following evidence of increased elephant activity around Ban Khlong Phawa.
“People should be extremely cautious. There have been several signs of elephants in the area. Village leaders and defence volunteers are on constant patrol to ensure safety.”
The attack has raised fears among locals, who say wild elephants have been roaming closer to farmland and plantations in recent months. Residents worry that encroachment on forest land and food shortages are driving the animals into human settlements, sparking more dangerous encounters, reported KhaoSod.
Officials are now stepping up monitoring efforts, with teams of civil defence officers deployed to patrol plantations at night. Villagers have also been advised to travel in groups, carry torches and avoid entering rubber fields after dark.
Wild elephant attacks are a recurring issue in several eastern provinces, with incidents often causing injuries, deaths or damage to crops. Conservationists have called for stronger measures to manage human-elephant conflict, including the creation of buffer zones and the restoration of natural food sources.
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