Was Kawanthissa’s death part of an organized plot? Ministry seeks CID probe

The Ministry of Environment has formally requested the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to launch an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the death of iconic Sri Lankan tusker Kawanthissa and suspected organized operations targeting wild elephants.

In a statement issued on Sunday (October 18), the Ministry said it had lodged a formal complaint with police and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), seeking an investigation into whether a coordinated conspiracy was behind the killing of wild elephants across the country.

The Ministry said the death of Kawanthissa had sparked widespread public concern, particularly amid reports of elephants being deliberately killed through shootings and other methods.

In its written request, the Secretary to the Ministry of Environment stressed the need to determine whether an organized group or syndicate was involved in systematically targeting wild elephants.

The Ministry called for those responsible to be identified and prosecuted, while ensuring that the investigation is conducted transparently and without interference.

Police authorities have also been requested to expedite the investigation and provide regular updates on its progress and any legal action taken.

Meanwhile, the Ministry said the Department of Wildlife Conservation, in coordination with the Armed Forces, Special Task Force (STF) and Sri Lanka Police, was continuing joint operations, raids and law enforcement measures to protect wild elephants.

Kawanthissa, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic wild tuskers, died on October 16 after receiving veterinary treatment for several weeks following a reported gunshot injury to his right front leg.

His death has prompted calls from environmentalists and political leaders for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the treatment provided to the elephant. (Newswire)

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