Forestry officials are questioning the environment ministry's investigation into the death of the wild elephant Seedor Hu Pab, claiming that its conclusions contradict scientific findings previously reached by wildlife specialists.
A fact-finding committee set up by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment announced on Wednesday that officials responsible for capturing and relocating the elephant had acted negligently during the operation.
The committee also recommended additional investigations against those allegedly involved and proposed that compensation for the loss of the elephant's life be pursued through a civil case against management and related personnel of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP).
The committee's brief statement on the matter has prompted criticism from within the DNP itself, with senior staff expressing surprise that the ministry reached conclusions different from those of the DNP's investigative committee.
A senior DNP source, who requested anonymity, said the DNP inquiry was conducted by wildlife experts who examined scientific evidence, witness accounts and operational details before concluding that the elephant died from respiratory failure during the relocation.
The source said the DNP had explained its findings at a press conference, while the ministry released only a one-page statement without detailing the evidence behind its decision.
"The ministry should clearly explain what evidence was used to reach conclusions different from those of the department's expert committee," the source said, adding that both investigations should be held to the same standard.
The source also noted that the Veterinary Council of Thailand is conducting its own investigation and urged the ministry to wait for the outcome before drawing conclusions.
According to the DNP's findings, the veterinary team followed accepted medical guidelines, including administering an appropriate anaesthetic dose during the operation.
