Blood samples taken from elephant Seetha as court ordered

Peradeniya University’s Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Senior Professor Dr’ Ashoka Dangolla took blood samples yesterday (27) from the elephant named Seetha, who was shot at during the Mahiyangana Perahera, at the premises belonging to the owner of the elephant, located at Pelanwatta Nagas Mawatha, Maharagama. These blood samples were taken according to an order issued by the Mahiyangana Magistrate.

The medical team led by Dr. Dangolla took blood samples from two parts of the elephant’s body. He said that since the order given by the Mahiyangana Magistrate did not specify from which place a blood sample should be taken,

the blood samples were taken from two places. Mahiyangana Police and Maharagama Police informed the Wildlife Officers to be present when the blood samples were taken, but they did not come.

Dr. Dangolla mentioned that three of the eight gunshot wounds have been treated, so far. He said that because of the elephant’s lack of activity, it has to be observed whether there is any metal material in the chest and there is no facility available for that.

Mahiyangana Police officers and Nugegoda division crime scene laboratory officers were present. Blood samples were sealed at the place where they were obtained. The Maha Sangha also came and wished good health for Seetha and put a Pirith noola on to the elephants’ shoulders and chanted Pirith.

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