Wild Elephants Damage Homes and Crops in Surat Thani

On the night of October 29, 2026, a herd of nine wild elephants emerged from the Kaeng Krung National Park and entered the Soi Thong area in Pak Mak sub-district, Chaiya, Surat Thani province. According to reports from Khaosod Online, the animals destroyed local homes and agricultural crops. Following the incident, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin ordered the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation to provide immediate assistance and compensation to the affected residents. Officials have been deployed to work with community leaders to ensure public safety and to monitor the herd while attempting to safely drive them back into the forest. For residents and travelers in the area, this incident highlights the importance of remaining vigilant when near national park boundaries. While authorities are actively managing the situation, the exact timeline for the elephants' return to the deep forest and the full extent of the financial compensation process remain to be confirmed. Visitors to the region are advised to follow local guidance and avoid approaching wild animals if encountered.