Your khuli loach story actually sounds pretty familiar. I used to have 2 khuli loaches, unfortunately Dino tried eating one and it ended up about the same your story did, with the exception that the poor khuli loach died of it's injuries.
Thought I'd share dino's progress with you all. As he matured I've come to the conclusion that he is a she, I'd like your input pics aren't the clearest but one shows the anal fin so I'd appreciate the opinions. He's been enjoying tilapia, hikari massivore pellets, and the occasional earthworm.