Elephant killed by illegally electrified fence — Polonnaruwa District
An adult elephant was found dead beside a paddy field fence connected directly to a domestic power line. A government wildlife veterinarian attributed the death to electrocution. The electricity provider has confirmed that the connection was unauthorised.
What is known
The cause of death (electrocution) and that the fence connection was unauthorised.
What is not yet known
Who installed the connection, and whether legal action has been taken.
Reviewed images
Redacted copies approved for publication. Location data and identifying details have been removed; originals stay private.
Timeline
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Unreviewed
Report received from a member of the public; elephant found dead beside a paddy field.
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Officially stated
A government wildlife veterinarian stated that the cause of death was electrocution.
Source: Post-mortem statement (summary), Department of Wildlife Conservation
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Corroborated
Local news coverage independently reported the incident and the fence connection.
Source: Regional newspaper report (demo citation), Demo Regional News
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Officially stated
The electricity provider confirmed the connection was unauthorised and has been removed.
Source: Written reply to Wildlife Watch, Ceylon Electricity Board
Questions to authorities
Asked whether the power connection to the fence was authorised and what action was taken.
Sent 15 Sep 2026 · Email
Official response received 2 Oct 2026
The connection was not authorised. It was disconnected after inspection, and the case was referred to the police.
Asked for the post-mortem findings and any steps to prevent repeat incidents in the area.
Sent 16 Sep 2026 · Email
No response was recorded by 1 Oct 2026. This does not imply refusal, admission or wrongdoing.