LAHAD DATU: A man was killed after being attacked by an elephant while working with his son at a palm oil plantation in Ladang Begahak 2, Jalan Tungku, on Sunday (April 12).
The 69-year-old victim was reportedly unable to escape before being trampled by the animal during the 2pm incident. His 38-year-old son managed to save himself while shouting for help.
Lahad Datu deputy police chief Supt Jimmy Panyau said initial investigations found that the incident occurred as the pair were closing the plantation gate before heading home.
"Suddenly, they were attacked by an elephant. The victim did not have time to escape and was trampled, while his son managed to run and tried to distract the animal by shouting for help," he said in a statement on Monday (April 13).
He said the elephant was believed to be a solitary bull and was not moving with a herd.
Once the animal fled the scene, the son rushed his father to Lahad Datu Hospital. However, the victim was confirmed dead by medical officers.
"A preliminary examination of the body revealed a broken leg and fractured ribs," Supt Jimmy said.
He added that the case has been classified as sudden death.
Witnesses are urged to contact the Tungku assistant police station chief at 017-829 3359 or the Lahad Datu district police headquarters.
The public, especially residents in the Tungku area, are advised to remain alert and cautious of the presence of wild elephants in their surroundings.
