According to information of the CID and the Attorney General's Department, there are around 22 elephants being kept in this manner.

Also, a special area in Udawalawe is to be opened to house such elephants.

The minister further adds that the Cabinet is to take measures for a stronger procedure when handing over elephants to Buddhist temples.

A court order stating that illegally held elephants should be handed over to the Wildlife Department, has already been issued.