Kenya Wildlife Service officers rescued an elephant that had become stuck in the mud, in a coordinated operation along River Galana.

KWS in a notice on Wednesday February 24, 2026, stated that it received a report that the elephant was trapped near a residential area, sparking concerns among locals.

The service responded by dispatching a team to the scene, with rescuers drawn from KWS officers, conservationists from Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and local community members.

“Yesterday, following reports of an elephant trapped in mud along River Galana, KWS teams together with Sheldrick Trust and the community carried out a successful rescue. The elephant was safely freed, and teams remain on site ensuring it moves away from nearby homes,” KWS said in a statement.

Following multiple efforts, the team successfully pulled the elephant to safety, with KWS officers remaining on site to ensure it moved away from nearby homes and avoid posing a threat to residents.

The team also used the opportunity to educate locals on wildlife conservation and the importance of peaceful coexistence.

“This rescue highlights the power of community partnership in conservation. KWS remains committed to promoting coexistence through collaboration, timely response, and working closely with communities to safeguard both people and wildlife,” the statement read.