Colombo:Security Forces in Sri Lanka have begun participating in a national initiative aimed at protecting the country’s wild elephant population and reducing human-elephant conflict. Joint operations with wildlife authorities in the Kekirawa area have led to the discovery of illegal firearms, explosive traps, and the arrest of three suspects, including a woman.
According to Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka, the operations are being directed and guided by Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd.). The initiative brings together the operational capabilities of the Tri-Services and relevant government institutions to enhance wildlife protection. An Operations Room at Army Headquarters has been set up to coordinate activities with the Ministry of Environment, Department of Wildlife Conservation, and other stakeholders, ensuring a systematic response to wildlife threats.
The Sri Lanka Army, in partnership with wildlife officers and an Air Force Veterinary Surgeon, has conducted joint operations in the Meekiriyawa and Neeginiyawa areas. These efforts have resulted in the arrest of three individuals and the seizure of illegal firearms, ammunition, and other items such as deer antlers and knives.
The ‘Hasthi Sena’ operation, which started on 02 November in the Galgamuwa area, is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Environment, the Tri-Services, and the Department of Wildlife Conservation. Sixty Army personnel, divided into ten operational teams, are participating in the initial phase, focusing on 17 elephants identified as at risk. The operation, supervised by the Commander of the Army, employs a scientific approach and covers approximately 80 percent of identified elephant habitats.
The initiative aims to address threats to elephants through coordinated surveillance, intelligence sharing, and legal enforcement, targeting illegal firearms, explosive bait, unauthorized electric fences, and snares. The Ministry of Defence continues to facilitate the Tri-Services’ contributions to strengthening national wildlife protection efforts and mitigating human-elephant conflict.