Kavantissa the iconic Sri Lankan tusker dies after gunshot injury

The death of Kavantissa, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic and largest wild tuskers, has sparked national outcry and calls for a transparent investigation. The elephant, known for his massive tusks, died on October 16 after a period of declining health following a gunshot wound to his front right leg sustained in late September.

While veterinary teams from the Department of Wildlife Conservation provided around-the-clock treatment, Kavantissa’s condition worsened due to dehydration and a lack of food intake. Wildlife authorities are seeking a court order to conduct a post-mortem examination involving experts from the University of Peradeniya to determine the exact cause of death and investigate potential negligence in his care.

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called for an independent probe involving international experts and proposed a special task force to protect remaining tuskers. Environmentalists are also demanding accountability, questioning who was responsible for the initial shooting and whether local political interference has hindered wildlife protection efforts. The incident highlights the ongoing human-elephant conflict in Sri Lanka, where hundreds of elephants die annually.