Sri Lanka, Oct. 23 -- Wildlife officials, veterinary teams, the Sri Lanka Army and police have launched a joint operation to save a sick wild elephant that collapsed in the Samanthurai area of the Ampara District.

The male elephant, estimated to be between 25 and 30 years old, was reportedly in good general health before falling ill. Although no external injuries have been observed, its unusually swollen abdomen has raised concerns about possible poisoning or a severe gastrointestinal blockage caused by ingesting non-degradable polythene.

Veterinary teams from the Eastern Region Wildlife Veterinary Unit, together with officers from the Ampara Wildlife Range Office and the Samanthurai Beat Office, are coordinating treatment efforts. Ess...