PM vows strict enforcement of environmental laws following Kawanthissa’s death

Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya says the Government is deeply saddened by the death of tusker Kawanthissa, who succumbed to severe gunshot injuries despite efforts by wildlife officers and veterinary teams to save its life.

Addressing the Presidential Environmental Awards 2026 held in Colombo today (19), the Prime Minister said the tragedy must never be repeated.

She emphasised that environmental laws would be strictly enforced against those responsible for environmental crimes, irrespective of their position, wealth or connections.

“We cannot allow tragedies such as the one that befell Tusker Kawanthissa to happen again. Environmental laws must not be influenced by a person’s position, wealth or connections. The law will be enforced equally against everyone.”

The Prime Minister said wildlife officers and veterinary teams had made significant efforts to save Kawanthissa, but the elephant could not be saved due to the severity of its injuries and resulting infections.

She added that the Government would further strengthen wildlife veterinary care and veterinary education to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Highlighting measures taken to address the human-elephant conflict, the Prime Minister said 113 forest areas covering approximately 71,900 hectares had been designated as reserves.

She said three elephant corridors were also being established to facilitate the movement of elephants, alongside a dedicated elephant management reserve.

To strengthen the Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Government has provided 100 pickup vehicles, 185 motorcycles and nine tractors, while 3,500 elephant fence assistants and 5,000 Civil Security Department personnel have been deployed to maintain elephant fences.

The Prime Minister also announced that steps had been taken to amend the National Environmental Act after 26 years, while more than 1,600 new officers were being recruited to the Ministry of Environment.

Emphasising the importance of sustainable development, she said environmental protection must be incorporated into government policy and the daily lives of citizens.

“Development achieved at the expense of environmental destruction can never be considered sustainable development.” (Newswire)

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