Sakor, a cherished elephant at the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center, has died. Veterinary staff worked hard to save him, but he was unable to recover from a severe swelling in his abdomen and passed away on September 22.

The 34-year-old male came originally from Botum Sakor National Park in Koh Kong province. He was brought to the rescue center in 2012 following clashes with local farmers. According to the center, the relocation was intended to protect nearby residents and travellers.

In the years that followed, Sakor grew into a valued and much-loved member of the center's resident elephant herd.

The center's management and staff shared their profound sorrow at his passing and offered thanks to the veterinarians, keepers and everyone else who cared for Sakor and looked after his wellbeing right up to the end.

The Airavata Elephant Foundation also voiced its grief over the loss, noting that his name came from Botum Sakor National Park, with "Sakor" meaning "sea" in Khmer.

Following his transfer, Sakor settled into a safe and peaceful life. He was known for the close bond he formed with a female elephant named Chamroeun.

The foundation observed that Sakor's story highlights the ongoing difficulties of human-wildlife coexistence in Cambodia.

An autopsy is planned to establish the exact cause of his death.