PHANG NGA, THAILAND – A tourist elephant rampaged in Phang Nga, brutally killing its own mahout and critically injuring a foreign visitor.
An elephant used for tourist rides became aggressive in Phang Nga, killing its mahout and critically injuring a tourist from Oman. The elephant then fled into the jungle, keeping authorities on edge.
The attack occurred in the Song Phraek sub-district on June 27. The 20-year-old elephant, Plai Thongkham, was carrying two foreign tourists when the situation escalated. Chaiyan Pradapsri, the 32-year-old mahout guiding the elephant, attempted to deter the animal from a nearby stream with a hook.
This action may have triggered the elephant’s rage. Plai Thongkham ran about 100 meters, throwing its mahout to the ground. It then attacked him with its trunk and feet with considerable force. Forensic examiner Dr. Montri Thanakit later confirmed extensive bone fractures, including a fatal neck injury.
Mahout Suffered Broken Neck
Before killing the mahout, the elephant had already thrown off one of the foreign tourists. The 33-year-old Omani tourist lost his grip and fell heavily. Witnesses reported the animal became completely uncontrollable within seconds.
The injured man was immediately transported to Phang Nga Hospital. Authorities did not immediately release specific details regarding the severity of his injuries. The second tourist was physically unharmed but witnessed the horrific event firsthand.
Did the Elephant Just Want to Reach Water?
Officers from the Thung Kha Ngok Police Station are continuing their investigation into the cause of the rampage. The prevailing theory is that the elephant wished to enter a stream, and the mahout’s intervention with a hook prevented it. This prohibition may have triggered the sudden aggression.
The exact cause has not yet been officially confirmed. Village headman Boonrong Sawatdichai was present at the scene as police and veterinary officials began their investigation. The uncertainty surrounding the elephant’s motive makes the hunt for the escaped animal more critical.
Beast Flees into Jungle
After fatally trampling his long-time mahout, Plai Thongkham fled into a nearby forest. The elephant is now considered unpredictable and highly dangerous. Authorities issued a strong warning that the agitated animal poses an acute threat to the public.
The Phang Nga Provincial Livestock Office immediately assembled a special team. These officers are equipped with tranquilizer guns to locate and subdue the elephant. It remains unclear whether the animal can be safely captured or if it will attack people again.
Hunt with Tranquilizer Guns Underway
Any help for the mahout, from Surin province, came too late. Chaiyan Pradapsri had no chance against the tons of raw power. The injured tourist, however, is receiving medical treatment and is unlikely to forget the experience anytime soon.
Until Plai Thongkham is tranquilized, the situation around Mueang district remains tense. Emergency responders are combing the area to prevent further escalation. The 20-year-old bull, once a provider of scenic tours, is now the hunted.