CHANTHABURI, Thailand – Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin commended wildlife officers for rescuing a wild elephant calf trapped in a fishing net near Khlong Phawa Yai Reservoir, Chanthaburi Province, on November 6, 2026. The Minister received a report from Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) Director-General Yongyuth Nakviroj confirming that Rapid Response Unit 9 of Protected Area Regional Office 2 (Si Racha) safely rescued the calf in Phawa Subdistrict, Kaeng Hang Maeo District.
After receiving an emergency report, officers coordinated with local authorities and arrived at the scene to assist the trapped elephant. The rescue team removed the net and guided the calf toward the forest. An initial health assessment found no serious injuries, and the animal appeared to be in good condition. The calf was then reunited with its mother and herd, which had been waiting near the forest’s edge.
The Minister commended the officers for their swift response, dedication, and professionalism, emphasizing the importance of protecting wildlife and preserving natural ecosystems. He instructed the DNP to continue monitoring the herd to ensure the calf remains safe and receives appropriate care from its mother. The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to wildlife protection, stressing that conservation efforts must go beyond emergency rescues to ensure animals can survive safely in their natural habitats. (NNT)
