A Spanish tourist met a tragic fate while visiting an elephant sanctuary in Thailand, highlighting the risks associated with animal interactions in tourism. On 6 January 2024, Blanca Ojanguren García, a 23-year-old studying in Taiwan, was fatally injured while bathing an elephant at the Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre in Phang Nga province.
Incident Details
Local police reported that the young woman was struck by the animal’s trunk during the bathing session, a popular activity for visitors. The elephant also reportedly gored her with its tusk. At the time of the incident, she was accompanied by her boyfriend, an infantry cadet from Spain.
Responsibility and Legal Action
In the aftermath of this tragic event, Thai authorities charged the elephant’s mahout with negligence, citing failure to ensure safety during the interaction. The mahout, identified as a 38-year-old Thai man, faces significant legal repercussions, including up to 10 years in prison and a fine of 200,000 baht (approximately US$5,700).
Context of Elephant Tourism
- Thailand is home to around 2,800 elephants that are part of the tourism industry.
- In the past 12 years, wild elephants have unfortunately killed 227 people, including tourists.
- Animal rights advocates have raised concerns about the stress bathing imposes on elephants.
Official Responses
The Spanish government has confirmed the incident and is providing consular assistance to García’s family. Jose Manuel Albares, Spain’s Foreign Minister, stated the consulate is in touch with the victim’s relatives, ensuring they receive necessary support in this difficult time.
While incidents like this are rare at sanctuaries, they prompt essential discussions regarding the ethics of animal tourism, especially in environments where elephants interact closely with humans.