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Inquiry launched into burnt elephant death at Seeppukulama as toll mounts
Seeppukulama incident highlights the dangerous escalation of human–elephant conflict, where frustration, fear and lack of proper mitigation measures are increasingly leading to violent outcomes – Wildlife Director General
The Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) has launched a high-level inquiry into the shocking death of an elephant found burnt at Seeppukulama, amid a growing number of elephant fatalities reported from across the country, Wildlife Director General told The Island.
Describing the Seeppukulama incident as “deeply disturbing,” the Director General said special investigation teams have been deployed to determine whether the elephant’s death was the result of deliberate human action, negligence or a criminal act linked to human–elephant conflict.
“This is an extremely serious case. An elephant being burnt points to a grave offence. We have ordered a comprehensive investigation, including forensic analysis and field-level inquiries, to establish exactly what happened and to identify those responsible,” he said.
According to the Director General, the inquiry will examine whether flammable materials, illegal deterrents or unauthorised electric devices were used, and whether there were prior incidents of conflict in the Seeppukulama area that may have led to retaliatory action against the animal.
He stressed that initial observations indicate the death was not due to natural causes. “If this is confirmed as a deliberate act, it will be treated as a serious wildlife crime. The law will be enforced without hesitation,” he warned.
The Director General said the Seeppukulama incident highlights the dangerous escalation of human–elephant conflict, where frustration, fear and lack of proper mitigation measures are increasingly leading to violent outcomes.
“Burning an elephant is not only illegal, it reflects a complete breakdown in coexistence. Such acts cannot be justified under any circumstances,” he said.
He noted that elephant deaths from electrocution, shooting and other human-induced causes have continued to rise, particularly in areas where settlements and agricultural lands overlap with traditional elephant ranges.
“Elephants are paying the price for unplanned development and habitat fragmentation. When corridors are blocked and forests shrink, conflict becomes inevitable,” the Director General said.
The DWC is working closely with the Police, Government Analyst’s Department and other relevant agencies to fast-track investigations into elephant deaths, including the Seeppukulama case. He added that officers have been instructed to take stern action against illegal electric fences, unauthorised power connections and other hazardous practices.
He also urged the public to assist investigators by coming forward with information related to the Seeppukulama incident. “Community cooperation is vital. Protecting elephants is not the responsibility of Wildlife officers alone; it is a national duty,” he said.
Sri Lanka is home to one of the largest remaining Asian elephant populations, and the Director General warned that continued losses—especially through brutal and unlawful acts—pose a serious threat to the species’ survival.
“The elephant is part of our natural and cultural heritage. Every such death, including the one at Seeppukulama, is a stark reminder that we must urgently rethink how we manage land, development and conflict,” he told The Island.
He reaffirmed the DWC’s commitment to strengthening enforcement, improving conflict mitigation strategies and ensuring that those responsible for wildlife crimes are brought to justice, stressing that impunity will only worsen the crisis.
By Ifham Nizam
The Russian circumnavigation team, the 5 Oceans Club, made a brief stop in Sri Lanka as part of their second global sailing expedition.
The six-member crew, visited the Russian House in Colombo, on Friday, (24th April) where they shared insights from their journey.
What makes this expedition particularly inspiring is the club’s commitment to inclusivity. They actively encourage children with limb disabilities to experience the ocean and participate in sailing as equals, fostering confidence and a deep connection with nature.
The team also spoke about a specialized sailing school based in Siberia—one of Russia’s most picturesque regions—where children with such challenges are trained and introduced to maritime life. During the session, they offered a glimpse into their daily life aboard the yacht and highlighted how they integrate elements of science into their explorations, making their journey both adventurous and educational.
The crew consists of, Dmitry Kuznetsov – (captain of the boat of the 5 Oceans Club), Vladimir Dudkin – (crew member), Dmitry Dudkin –(cabin boy), Ksenia Kuznetsova – (cabin boy), Natalia Shahinyan – (founder of the charity foundation “Life on the Move”), Sofia Sheremet -(ward of the foundation)
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Heat Index at Caution Level in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, and Eastern provinces and in Monaragala district during the day time
Warm Weather Advisory
Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre
Issued at 3.30 p.m. on 25 April 2026, valid for 26 April 2026.
The Heat index, the temperature felt on the human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, and Eastern provinces and in Monaragala district during the day time.
The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.
Effect of the heat index on human body is mentioned in the above table and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.
ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.
Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.
Note:
In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-744649
Railway General Manager Ravindra Pathmapriya said on Friday that re-railing operations of the derailed ‘Sagarika’ train have already commenced and that services on the Coastal Line are expected to be restored within two days.
Addressing the media, he said the Minister had instructed officials to take all necessary measures to minimise inconvenience to passengers.
Commenting on the incident, he said: “The damaged train is a significant loss for us, especially as our fleet is already limited. We have incurred this loss and hope to rectify the situation promptly. However, we will need to deploy an alternative train in its place, and discussions are currently underway.”
The ‘Sagarika’ train, operating from Beliatta to Maradana, derailed near the Wadduwa Railway Station on Friday morning (24), causing severe damage to one track of the dual-line section.
The Railway Department has since restricted services on the affected Coastal Line up to Panadura Railway Station.
Arrangements have been made to transport passengers from Panadura to South Kalutara by Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) buses, from where train services will resume towards Matara and Beliatta.
Meanwhile, the Department said efforts are underway to clear the obstruction and restore at least one track by the end of the day.
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Showers expected in the Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Galle, Matara, Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya districts after 2.00 pm.
Heat Index at Caution Level in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, and Eastern provinces and in Monaragala district during the day time
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