By Zaki Salleh
GERIK: Owners of four vehicles faced a tense moment when they were surrounded by several elephants during an incident at Kilometer 9, East-West Highway (JRTB) Gerik-Jeli near Sungai Lebey here yesterday.
The incident occurred at 9 PM when all the vehicles stopped on the road to observe a herd of elephants.
Perak Deputy Police Chief, Deputy Commissioner Zulkafli Sariaat, stated that no injuries were reported.
He noted that the Gerik District Police Headquarters received a report about the incident from the victims at 11 PM.
“The vehicles involved were a Perodua Alza, Toyota Innova, Honda Jazz, and Proton Persona.
“All these vehicles were traveling from Jeli, Kelantan, to Gerik when they spotted the herd of elephants near the road.
“After stopping, the herd eventually moved away, but several elephants approached these vehicles.
“The exact number could not be determined due to the darkness.
“The wild animals caused damage by rubbing against and leaning on the vehicles,” he said.
After the incident, the elephants moved towards a nearby forest.
As a result, all the vehicles suffered dents on the front, rear, and both right and left sides.
The incident has been reported to the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN) for further action.
