Tragic Death of Spanish Tourist Raises Red Flags for Thailand’s Elephant Tourism Industry

A 22-year-old Spanish woman, Blanca Ojanguren García, was killed by an elephant at the Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre, leading to charges against the elephant's caretaker for negligence. This unsettling incident has reignited debate over the ethical implications of the elephant tourism industry in Thailand, where nearly 3,000 elephants are kept in various attractions. Activists have condemned such interactions, stating they cause distress to elephants and pose dangers to visitors. This is not the first instance of a tragic encounter; past incidents have also led to similar negligence charges against mahouts. More cautiously, Spain's foreign minister has assured support for García's family in this heartbreaking situation.

In an alarming episode that has intensified scrutiny of Thailand's elephant tourism sector, 22-year-old Spanish student Blanca Ojanguren García was tragically killed after being gored by a 45-year-old elephant named Phang Somboon at the Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre. The incident occurred when García was bathing the elephant, leading to a charge of negligence against the mahout, Theerayut Inthaphudkij. This unfortunate event has raised significant concerns among animal rights groups, emphasizing the ethical repercussions and potential hazards associated with human-elephant interactions in captivity. Activists argue that such practices disrupt the natural behaviors of the elephants and increase the risk of injury for both animals and tourists. Historically, similar fatalities have resulted in legal action against handlers, highlighting a troubling pattern in what is defended as a sanctuary for elephants. In response to the tragedy, Spain’s foreign minister has offered assistance to García’s grieving family as they navigate through this devastating loss.