The elephant dragged away by the current, was initially noticed by a Fast Attack Craft while on a routine patrol in the area. 

Thereupon, another Fast Attack Craft on patrol and a team of navy divers were promptly directed to the location by the Navy. Stepping up the rescue effort, 2 more Cedric Boats along with 7 naval personnel attached to the Rapid Action Boat Squadron were also dispatched for the rescue mission.

Officials from the Department of Wildlife helped out by providing the necessary instructions required to carry out the rescue mission.  

Accordingly, they were able to carefully direct the elephant towards the coast from the sea, using  ropes.

Having safely guided the elephant to the Yan Oya area in Pulmodai, the animal was handed over to the Wildlife officials.

Source: Ada Derana - Sri Lanka