Neglected Thai Elephant Finally Returns Home from Sri Lanka

An ailing elephant, known as Muthu Raja in Sri Lanka and Sak Surin in Thailand, has returned to Thailand for medical treatment after allegations of abuse during his time at a Buddhist temple. The elephant, gifted to Sri Lanka by the Thai royal family, was accompanied by a team of veterinarians and trainers on a six-hour flight. He will be quarantined and rehabilitated at the Thai Elephant Conservation Center. The elephant's poor health, including underweight, rough skin, and abscesses, prompted calls for his rescue by animal rights activists. Thailand's Foreign Affairs Ministry confirmed the elephant's poor living conditions and sought Sri Lanka's approval for his return. The decision on whether he will be sent back to Sri Lanka will be discussed with the Colombo government.