An elephant was found dead in the river between the provinces of Ratanakiri and MondulKiri on Wednesday, said Environment ministry spokesman Neth Pheaktra.

Mr Pheaktra today said the carcass of the elephant was spotted by local fishermen and authorities are yet to find out the cause of death, adding that the elephant could have drowned.

“Until now [Friday], we are not sure. According to the examination, the corpse of the elephant did not show any signs of injure but one back leg was broken. Perhaps he was trapped in the cascading rocks inside the river,” he said.

According to Villagers, Mr Pheaktra said there were about 20 to 30 elephants which recently came to the O’Yadaw national park smashing bamboo and trees before crossing into Mondulkiri province.

• Tags: Elephant dead, Mondulkiri, Ratanakiri