Several investigations are underway into the death of tusker Kawanthissa, with two suspects arrested and remanded until October 28, Cabinet Spokesman Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa confirmed today (20).

Speaking during the weekly Cabinet media briefing held at the Department of Government Information today, Minister Jayatissa said the post-mortem examination of Kawanthissa had been assigned to the Veterinary Division of the University of Peradeniya based on court orders. The division is expected to submit all relevant findings to the court.

In addition, an internal inquiry is being conducted into the incident, with officials from outside the Department of Wildlife Conservation involved in the process.

The inquiry includes the Director of the Department of National Zoological Gardens, a director from the Ministry of Environment and three senior lecturers from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Peradeniya.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has also appointed a six-member committee comprising experts in the relevant field to investigate the incident. Meanwhile, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is conducting a separate investigation.

Minister Jayatissa said the two suspects were arrested following information provided by members of the public to the Western Province Range Forest Office. The arrests were carried out by the Walana Central Anti Vice Striking Force.

He further revealed that several firearms, including ammunition, had been recovered from the residence of the first suspect arrested. The second suspect was taken into custody based on evidence gathered during the investigation.

The Minister clarified that four other individuals arrested by the Walana Central Anti Vice Striking Force had been taken into custody in connection with matters unrelated to the tusker’s death.

He added that further action would be taken based on evidence uncovered as the investigations progress.