Sri Lankan wildlife authorities locate Agbo elephant and probe Kavanthissa shooting

Sri Lankan authorities have successfully located the missing tusker Agbo, who was found unharmed in the Nachchadoowa Tank Reserve following an extensive joint search operation involving the Army, Air Force, and the Department of Wildlife Conservation. The search utilized land teams and drone technology to track the elephant after it was reported missing.

Separately, investigations continue into the shooting death of another iconic tusker, Kavanthissa. Several suspects have been arrested, including two individuals who were remanded by the Mahawa Magistrate’s Court. State media reports indicate that one suspect is affiliated with the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP).

Authorities have also detained five additional suspects as the probe expands to investigate potential organized illegal activities in the area. While wildlife officers allege the use of firearms in the killing, defense lawyers have challenged the lack of scientific evidence linking the suspects to the incident. The case has prompted renewed calls for stronger wildlife protection measures in the country.