ClimatePolitics

As incidents spike, Sri Lanka identifies 17 tuskers considered at high risk

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Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 13/11/2026, 07:24:24 UTC.

Briefings

Following the death of celebrated wild tusker Kavantissa, Sri Lanka launched a military-led 'Hasthi Sena' operation to protect vulnerable elephants. The task force, involving the army, navy, air force, and Department of Wildlife Conservation, began raids last week to arrest individuals using illegal traps and explosives. While the government aims to curb human-elephant conflict and strengthen intelligence, conservationists warn this may be a temporary measure lacking a sustained conservation program.

Key points

• Sri Lanka launched a military-led 'Hasthi Sena' operation involving the army, navy, air force, and Department of Wildlife Conservation to protect vulnerable elephants.
• The task force began raids last week to arrest individuals using illegal traps and explosives, aiming to curb human-elephant conflict.

Context

This initiative follows widespread public outrage over the death of Kavantissa, a celebrated wild tusker. The government uses a risk-assessment formula to score tuskers based on threat factors. Conservationists note the need for sustained programs rather than temporary responses to public pressure.

Limitations

Evidence covers only the launch of the 'Hasthi Sena' operation and initial raids. It does not include long-term outcomes, specific numbers of arrests, or details on the effectiveness of the risk-assessment formula used by WTS.

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