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Khao Yai Campsite Closed After Third Death Linked to Same Bull Elephant

Officials plan a Friday meeting to decide whether to relocate the animal or attempt behaviour change.

Overview

  • The victim, Jirathachai Jiraphatboonyathorn, was fatally attacked near his tent early on Feb. 2, according to park and media reports.
  • Nakhon Ratchasima’s governor ordered the Khlong Pla Kang campsite closed and authorities have expanded ranger patrols in tourist areas.
  • Park officials say the same bull has been tied to at least three fatalities, and a senior official said the true toll could be higher.
  • Local reports identify the bull as Phlai Oiwan, and dry-season foraging has prompted safety advisories urging visitors to move in groups and withdraw quietly if they encounter elephants.
  • Thailand’s parks department reports more than 220 people have been killed by wild elephants nationwide since 2012, highlighting a broader human–elephant conflict.