A tragic incident at Bali Safari and Marine Park has left the community reeling after the untimely death of 27-year-old mahout, Komang Resi Yasa. The young mahout lost his life in a devastating attack by a usually calm and gentle bull elephant, Gandi. Eyewitnesses and park officials have recounted the harrowing moments leading up to the incident, which has sparked concerns about the unpredictable nature of wildlife and raised questions about safety protocols at the park.
A Routine Day Turns Fatal
The incident occurred during a routine day at Bali Safari, with Komang tending to the elephants as usual. Gandi, a 30-year-old bull elephant who was calmly feeding in the tall grass, suddenly exhibited a burst of aggression. Suwoko, a fellow park worker who was seated atop Gandi at the time, later recalled the shocking moment when the elephant charged at Komang. The distance was short—only around 10 meters—but Gandi’s ferocity left little time for anyone to intervene.
The Attack Unfolds
As bystanders screamed for Komang to flee, the young man tragically stumbled into the tall elephant grass. In a chilling scene, Gandi used his tusks to toss Komang repeatedly into the air—eyewitnesses estimated the elephant hurled him at least ten times. Suwoko, sitting helplessly atop Gandi, attempted to stop the attack using a “ganco,” a sharp pick-axe typically used to control elephants. Meanwhile, another park worker, Gilang Romadhon, tried to distract Gandi by poking him with a long pole. In a desperate bid to save Komang, Romadhon even brought nearby female elephants closer, hoping they could lure Gandi away. Sadly, their efforts were in vain, and the attack continued until Komang lay motionless on the ground.
Komang’s Wounds and Final Moments
When the attack finally ended, Komang was gravely wounded, suffering severe injuries to his thigh, left shoulder, and chest. Despite the immediate actions of the park’s emergency team, Komang was quickly transported to Kasih Ibu Hospital in Saba, Gianyar, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. His sudden death has left his family and the park community devastated.
Possible Causes: Was “Musth” to Blame?
Speculation has arisen regarding the cause of Gandi’s unexpected aggression. An unnamed expert from Bali’s captive elephant sector suggested that the elephant may have been experiencing “musth,” a periodic condition in male elephants characterized by a surge in reproductive hormones, which can trigger sudden bouts of aggressive behavior. While Gandi had never exhibited violent tendencies before, the combination of environmental factors and possible hormonal changes may have contributed to this tragic outcome.
A Park Mourns and Investigates
The Bali Safari and Marine Park community is now mourning the loss of a beloved colleague. Alexander Zulkarnain, the park’s Marketing Director, expressed his condolences in a written statement, emphasizing the park’s commitment to supporting Komang’s family. He reassured the public that Bali Safari has strict safety policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs) in place, though the park is now reviewing these protocols in light of the incident.
“We express our deep condolences to the family of our deceased colleague and friend,” Zulkarnain said. “Taman Safari Bali will continue to provide support to his surviving family during this period of profound grief.”
The Gianyar Police Precinct is conducting a thorough investigation, reviewing CCTV footage, and interviewing witnesses to understand what led to the fatal incident. The park is fully cooperating with authorities and has temporarily suspended its elephant attractions while the investigation is ongoing.
Final Thoughts
In response to the tragedy, Bali’s Nature Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has also stepped in to review the park’s safety protocols. The temporary closure of elephant-related activities is intended to allow the park to reassess its measures and make any necessary improvements. The incident has highlighted the unpredictable nature of working with wildlife, and Bali Safari is committed to enhancing its safety standards to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As Bali Safari and Marine Park reflects on this loss, they are determined to learn from the incident and make meaningful changes. Komang Resi Yasa’s passion for wildlife and his dedication to his work will be remembered, and the park hopes to honor his memory by improving safety practices for both staff and animals. The bond between mahouts and elephants is one of trust and care, but this tragedy is a sobering reminder of the complexities of human-animal interactions.
The park community remains united in its support for Komang’s family, and as they work towards a safer future, they are determined to ensure that such an incident never happens again.
