Khao Yai park clarifies contractor resigned amid elephant concerns
Khao Yai park clarifies contractor resigned amid elephant concerns
Ryan Turner, The Thaiger
October 28, 2024
Khao Yai National Park has clarified that Sutthiporn Sinka, known as “Phlai
Su” resigned from his duties of pushing back wild elephants rather than
being transferred. He faced numerous complaints for using inappropriate
methods that posed risks to tourists.
Sutthiporn, a contractor at Khao Yai National Park, was responsible for
managing wild elephants that ventured onto visitor paths. As of yesterday,
October 27, Chaiya Huayhongthong, the head of Khao Yai National Park,
clarified that Sutthiporn had retired last year.
However, due to his capability in managing wild elephants, he was
re-employed as a contractor under a temporary employment agreement.
Chaiya explained that a group of tourists had lodged complaints against
Sutthiporn for his methods in managing wild elephants. Specifically, he
would approach the elephants at dangerously close distances, sometimes
using a motorcycle or walking within close range.
This behaviour encouraged groups of photographers and other tourists to
follow suit, taking photos of both the elephants and Sutthiporn’s methods.
Chaiya continued, explaining that the park has since revised its approach
to managing wild elephants. They have strengthened their central patrol
team or the safety monitoring unit. This team is well-prepared with
personnel and vehicles, working collaboratively to ensure that the methods
used to manage elephants do not pose risks to either the staff or the
tourists.
Khao Yai National Park has not transferred Sutthiporn to any other role as
reported. Instead, he submitted his resignation as a contractor to pursue
personal ventures, effective from November 1, Chaiya confirmed.
For tourists visiting Khao Yai National Park, Chaiya advised that if they
encounter wild elephants in service zones or on paths without nearby staff,
they should observe the elephants’ behaviour. If the elephants are foraging
normally, tourists should avoid stopping to take photos or causing any
disturbances.
Afterwards, tourists should call the Khao Yai National Park Visitor Centre
at 08-6092-6529. This will enable the park to send a team to manage the
situation safely, reported KhaoSod.