An expert committee appointed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake began investigating the death of tusker Kawanthissa, who died in the Siyambalangamuwa area of Galgamuwa around 16 October.

The committee held its first meeting at the Presidential Secretariat today (21), discussing the elephant’s injuries, the response by wildlife authorities and measures to prevent similar incidents.

It will also develop standard operating procedures for wild elephant welfare and consider establishing a rapid-response veterinary unit, with support from local and foreign experts.