The oldest elephant at the National Zoological Gardens in Dehiwela went berserk last afternoon attacking the enclosure and causing damage to it.

The Zoo authorities said the 60-year-old male elephant was apparently in must. It had been brought to Dehiwela from Anuradhapura, where it was captured.

Senior officials of the Zoo said, "Bandula was in must. First, he broke the iron manacles on the hind legs. Then he started attacking the pillars. The roof came down and he started throwing the roofing sheets around. We were unable to control him and fortunately no one was hurt".

The elephant was later tranquilised. His trunk was damaged. Sports and Recreational Minister Gamini Lokuge said that he has called for a report from the Zoo authorities.