Thailand calls for investigation into alleged mistreatment of two gift elephants at Sri Lankan temples.

COLOMBO, Nov 17 — Sri Lanka is investigating claims that two elephants gifted by Thailand have been mistreated at Buddhist temples, Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi said.

The elephants, given in 1980 and 2001, have raised welfare concerns in Bangkok. A veterinary panel has been appointed to assess their health, while diplomatic talks on their care are ongoing. Activists say Thailand may seek to repatriate the animals.

Elephants are revered in Sri Lanka, but cases of abuse have been reported. In 2023, a Thai elephant gifted in 2001 was returned after neglect at a temple. Conservationists warn that illegal trade and human-elephant conflicts are contributing to the decline of the country’s 7,000-strong wild elephant population. — AFP