KINABATANGAN: The Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) is investigating the death of a male elephant found floating in the Kinabatangan River near Angco Jaya Plantation and Lot 4 of the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary.
State Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the carcass was retrieved by the SWD Rapid Response Team and Sukau honorary wildlife rangers after drifting downstream from Pontian Plantation.
Estimated to be between 14 and 18 years old and six feet tall, the elephant had suffered several injuries, and both tusks were missing.
A post-mortem examination was conducted on Oct 1. Samples of the organs and stomach contents have been sent for laboratory analysis to determine the cause of death.
Jafry said a full investigation into the death and missing tusks is underway. Urging the public to assist with any information, he cautioned against speculation until official findings are concluded.
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