Brutally Killed Elephant Found In Nursery Forest Area Of Sungai Pinangah, Sabah

KOTA KINABALU, May 19 (Bernama) -- A dead Borneon elephant was discovered in a nursery forest area within the Sungai Pinangah yesterday (May 18), with authorities suspecting the animal had been brutally killed. 

Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin, through a statement today, said that initial examination revealed that the elephant’s face and mouth had been cut in an L-shaped pattern using sharp tools, and tusks missing.

“At this stage, no gunshot wounds have been detected on the section of the carcass examined, although a full forensic examination is still ongoing to determine the exact cause of death.

“The animal is believed to be a male Borneon elephant measuring approximately 2.9 metres in height, with a footprint size of about 1.45 metres,” Jafry said.

According to Jafry, the premilinary field inspection report by the Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD) was based on the inspection conducted on May 18 from 12:13 pm to 3:30 pm at the incident site within the nursery area in Sungai Pinangan Forest Reserve, Tongod.

He said the operation involved officers from the SWD, Community Rangers and the Royal Malaysia Police.

Citing the inspection report, the Minister said the Kinabatangan Wildlife team received a complaint at approximately 8:25 am on May 18, regarding a dead elephant suspected to be linked to wildlife crime.

He explained that preliminary information indicated that on May 17, at approximately 5.30 pm, estate workers in the Tongod district reportedly heard a loud explosion-like sound near the area where the carcass was later discovered.

Heavy rainfall during the suspected period of the incident also made it difficult for investigators to identify tracks and evidence at the scene.

“I have requested the Sabah Wildlife Department to immediately proceed with detailed investigation, strengthen encorcement and patrol operation. I also want continued collaboration with Royal Malaysia Police, and enhance monitoring efforts in wildlife movement corridors and high-risk area.

“My ministry will not compromise on any form of wildlife crime and will continue strengthening cooperation with enforcement agencies and stakelholders. We cannot allow Sabah to become a ground for wildlife crime. Every loss of a protected species is a loss to our natural heritage and the future of Sabah’s biodiversity,” he said.

In the meantime, the Minister urged members of the public who may possess information related to this incident to come forward and assist the authorities to ensure a comprehensive investigation and appropriate action.

-- BERNAMA