There are too many cases of animal cruelty across the globe that would shock you with their ferocity. The story of Raju the elephant is just one of those stories.

For 50 years, Raju was held captive in the Uttar Pradesh area of India. Day after day, massive spiked chains cut into his starved, frail flesh. His “owner” tied him and forced him to beg for handouts from tourists, holding out his trunk.

One day, the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department in India alerted a North London-based charity, Wildlife SOS, of Raju’s plight. When they discovered what this poor creature had to deal with, the group flew to India to rescue him.

They never expected what Raju did during his incredible rescue.

A 10 person team of vets and wildlife experts were joined by 20 forestry department officers and 6 police officers. Raju had an army rescuing him.

They found Raju chained, as he was for years.

The team attempted the rescue at night, so that there would be less interference from bystanders or his “owner.”

Raju’s wounds were constantly open; the spikes on his chains dug into his flesh every day. They oozed and bled.

After being freed, tears of joy actually rolled down Raju’s face.

“The team were astounded to see tears roll down his face during the rescue. It was so incredibly emotional for all of us. We knew in our hearts he realized he was being freed.”

The elephant was emaciated and in terrible condition.

He was sedated and then transported to the Elephant Conservation and Care Centre at Mathura.

His open-air ride was one of his first tastes of true freedom.

Once at the center, Raju was given a bath and emergency medical attention.

He was fed and loved…

The long and difficult rescue was emotional for Raju, but also for his saviors.

Now, he’ll live out his days being happy, free from pain and suffering.

(H/T Daily Mail & ViralNova)

The heroes at Wildlife SOS saved Raju from decades of torture. He will finally know freedom and days without pain and torture. It’s incredible that he was able to survive this long and endure such abuse.

Click below to share his amazing rescue with others. If you see animal abuse, say something. Don’t let innocent creatures suffer.

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