Military individual, armed with a knife, to face legal consequences for encroaching on a wild elephant.
In a shocking turn of events, a video circulating on social media captured a man brandishing a knife while attempting to approach a wild elephant inside Khao Yai National Park. The individual, identified as a Thai soldier, has been on the run and is facing charges for breaking park rules [1][2].
The soldier, a 30-year-old army private first class, has a history of mental health issues [2]. According to the DNP director-general, Atthapol Charoenchansa, the man was spotted in the park area on security camera footage, using a motorcycle to maneuver around [1].
In the viral video, the man is seen wearing a black jacket, his face covered, and a guitar slung across his back. He advances towards the elephant with a knife in his left hand, while raising his right hand in an "OK" gesture [2]. The wild elephant smartly steps back, escaped what could have been a disastrous encounter.
The incident occurred at Thung Khao Kheow, a part of Khao Yai National Park, situated in Nakhon Nayok province [1]. As a reminder, all tourists are strongly advised to keep their distance from wild elephants. If they perceive a threat, the animals can retaliate instantly [1].
The man's illegal actions not only risked his own life but also potentially endangered the elephant. His actions disregarded the National Park Acts, which strictly forbid visitors from carrying weapons into national parks and from disobeying safety guidelines [1]. Park officials have urged visitors to respect wildlife and follow safety guidelines [1].
Public reaction has been swift and strong, with many expressing concern about the situation. Many called for greater respect for nature and adherence to safety guidelines to ensure the safety of both humans and animals [2]. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of coexisting harmoniously with wildlife and adhering to safety regulations.
- Despite facing charges for breaking park rules and having a history of mental health issues, the soldier, who was identified in the viral video with a knife and an "OK" gesture while approaching a wild elephant, has not been apprehended as of Wednesday, according to general-news outlets.
- The soldier, clad in a black jacket, motorcycle rider, and guitar-carrying intruder in the Khao Yai National Park, seemed to disregard crime-and-justice norms with his actions, as his actions potentially endangered the elephant and violated National Park Acts, which prohibit visitors from carrying weapons and disobeying safety guidelines.
- In Wednesday's general-news coverage, it was reported that the man's questionable gesture towards the elephant sparked an outcry from the public, calling for greater respect for nature, adherence to safety guidelines, and an example for all visitors to follow when interacting with wildlife inside Khao Yai National Park.
