Wild elephant breaks into school in Son La, students remain safe
VOV.VN - A wild elephant unexpectedly entered the campus of Huoi Mot Ethnic Boarding Secondary School in the northern province of Son La on April 4, reported local authorities.
According to security camera footage, at around 5:14 a.m., the elephant crossed a highway, broke through a steel fence, and moved into the student boarding area of the school in Huoi Mot commune. On-duty staff and teachers quickly alerted students, instructing them to remain indoors, stay calm, and avoid provoking the animal.
Thanks to the prompt response, all students were safe and no injuries were reported.
Local authorities said the elephant stayed on campus for about 10 minutes before breaking another section of the fence and heading uphill. Some infrastructure was damaged, raising safety concerns, said Luong Van Vinh, chairman of the Huoi Mot commune People’s Committee.
In recent times, wild elephants have been increasingly spotted in nearby areas, causing damage to crops and property. The animal involved is believed to be a solitary, aging elephant that frequently moves between Huoi Mot, Chieng Khoong, Song Ma communes, and bordering areas of Laos.
During periods of food scarcity, elephants tend to approach residential areas in search of food.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid approaching or disturbing elephants, refrain from filming or taking photos, and limit outdoor activities during early morning and nighttime hours.