Wild Elephants Invade Villages in Preah Vihear, Forcing Nighttime Evacuations

A herd of wild elephants has been causing fear among residents in Tbaeng Meanchey District, Preah Vihear Province, northern Cambodia. Since mid-August 2026, a group of six elephants (three adults and three calves) has been roaming the area, severely damaging agricultural crops. The incursions have resulted in two residents sustaining injuries. In addition to crop destruction, damage to homes and farm huts has also been reported, compounded by wild boar activity and severe windstorms. Moeun Sophet, Director of the Provincial Department of Environment, confirmed that a specialized team is assessing the full extent of the damage. To protect residents' lives, local authorities, in cooperation with joint forces, launched an emergency rescue operation. Vulnerable individuals, including the elderly and children, were evacuated from the affected areas to safer locations such as elevated grounds or schools around 11 PM on August 30, 2026. The evacuation was conducted swiftly under the dim light of flashlights and vehicle headlights. Khem Set, Deputy Governor of Tbaeng Meanchey District and Head of the District Administration Unified Command Secretariat, stated that a joint team is strengthening patrols and implementing strict preventive measures to stop wild elephants from entering residential areas. The district administration has also urged the public and residents living near the affected zones to remain highly vigilant and report any sightings of wildlife movement immediately to the authorities to avoid potential dangers. Source: Koh Santepheap Khmer