Supreme Administrative Court Orders Relocation of Three Wild Elephants
The Supreme Administrative Court has mandated that the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation relocate three wild elephants in Khon Kaen using strict scientific protocols.
On November 11, 2026, the Supreme Administrative Court issued a ruling regarding the management of three wild elephants—known as Nga Jew, Ku Thang, and See Dor Noi—currently located in Khon Kaen. The court modified a previous lower court order, directing the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) to proceed with the relocation and displacement of these animals. The court emphasized that the operation must strictly adhere to scientific principles and prioritize the safety of the elephants, the officials involved, and the local public. Furthermore, the DNP is required to submit progress reports to the Khon Kaen Administrative Court every 30 days until a final judgment is reached. This legal action stems from a lawsuit filed by Ms. Wannasiri Seenamburi and five others against the DNP. For residents and visitors in the area, this ruling signifies a shift toward a more regulated approach to human-wildlife conflict management. While the court has mandated the relocation, the specific timeline and the exact methods to be employed by the DNP remain to be confirmed as the agency begins its reporting cycle. Observers should monitor local updates regarding potential movement operations that may affect travel or safety in the vicinity of the elephants' current habitat.
