A hungry elephant has helped itself to snacks, raiding a convenience store in Thailand.
Plai Biang Lek from the Khao Yai National Park caused a stir on Monday afternoon in the Pak Chong district of the Nakhon Ratchasima region, about three hours north-east of Bangkok.
The incident captured on camera by shocked onlookers amd the store’s CCTV went viral on social media.
The startled store owner was serving a customer when the unexpected guest arrived about 3pm (6pm AEST), prompting them to both flee the store, according to The Bangkok Post.
After 10 minutes of rummaging, the elephant made his way back towards the forest leaving a slew of food and groceries across the store.
It’s understood that Plai Biang Lek opted for sweet treats over salty foods – something that’s highly unusual for wild elephants – nibbling on a sweet Thai crispy snack and eggs before casually leaving the shop.
The owner estimated the damage bill would be around 1000 baht ($47.50) but was thankful no-one was hurt in the incident.
It’s not the first time the 23-year-old elephant has made his way off the forest tracks in search of food.
Park rangers said he’s previously raided a porridge vendor’s stall in the same area, according to Khaosod English.
