Ecobiz.asia — Two Sumatran elephants have been found dead in Mukomuko Regency, Bengkulu Province, prompting an investigation by Indonesia’s Ministry of Forestry to determine the cause of death.
Head of Public Relations and International Cooperation at the Ministry of Forestry, Ristianto Pribadi, said the initial report was received by the Bengkulu Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) on April 29, 2026.
Following the report, authorities coordinated with local officials, including the Sungai Rumbai police sector, to initiate preliminary response measures at the site.
On April 30, a BKSDA Bengkulu team, accompanied by a veterinarian, was deployed to verify the findings and conduct initial handling procedures.
Preliminary observations confirmed that the two elephants, one adult and one calf believed to be a mother and its offspring, were found dead in close proximity. The tusks of both animals were reported to be intact.
The cause of death has not yet been determined and remains subject to necropsy and laboratory analysis.
As of May 1, a joint team comprising BKSDA Bengkulu, the Sumatra Regional Forestry Law Enforcement Unit, Kerinci Seblat National Park officials, and the police has been on-site to carry out necropsy procedures in accordance with standard protocols for handling protected wildlife.
Ristianto said the government is treating the case with utmost seriousness.
“We express our deep concern. The joint team is working to scientifically determine the cause of death through necropsy and laboratory analysis. If there are indications of legal violations, strict action will be taken in accordance with the law,” he said.
He also urged the public to refrain from speculation and allow the investigation process to proceed properly.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to thoroughly investigate the case in a transparent and science-based manner, while strengthening the protection of endangered wildlife through cross-sector collaboration. ***
