An elephant known as Sakor has died at the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center following a brief illness marked by severe swelling of the abdomen.

The 34-year-old male passed away on September 22 despite intensive care from the center's veterinary team, which was unable to save him.

Sakor originally came from Botum Sakor National Park in Koh Kong province. He was relocated to Phnom Tamao in 2012 after repeated conflicts with local farmers, a transfer the center said was necessary to protect both the community and travelers in the area.

Over the years, he became a cherished member of the center's elephant herd and was well known to staff and visitors alike.

A Life in Sanctuary

Management and staff at the rescue center said they were deeply saddened by his death and expressed gratitude to the veterinarians, keepers and all others who cared for him and looked after his welfare until the end.

The Airavata Elephant Foundation also shared its condolences, noting that Sakor was named after Botum Sakor National Park. In Khmer, the word Sakor translates to "sea."

After arriving at Phnom Tamao, Sakor lived in safety and peace, forming a particularly close bond with a female elephant named Chamroeun.

According to the foundation, his story highlights the broader challenges of human-wildlife coexistence in Cambodia.

An autopsy will be carried out to establish the exact cause of death.