Leopard Captured in Bahraich After Days of Village Terror and Fatal Attack
In a dramatic conclusion to a tense four-day ordeal, forest department officials successfully captured a leopard that had been spreading panic across two villages in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh. The big cat was trapped late Wednesday night in the Nishangada range, bringing a wave of relief to terrified residents who had been living in fear since the animal was linked to a fatal attack on a young girl earlier this week.
Deadly Attacks Trigger Widespread Fear
According to forest officials, the leopard's reign of terror began when it dragged a child from inside her home in Azamgarh Purwa village two days ago. The girl's mutilated body was later discovered in a nearby field, sending shockwaves through the community. In a separate incident, the same animal attacked a youth in Bhatta Bargad Purwa village, leaving him injured. These back-to-back violent encounters triggered intense fear among villagers, with many refusing to venture outdoors after dusk and staying locked inside their homes for safety.
Elusive Animal Finally Trapped After Evading Capture
Acting swiftly on reports of the leopard's movements, the forest department set up specialized traps in strategic locations. For two days, the cunning animal managed to circle around the cages without entering, frustrating capture efforts and prolonging the anxiety in the affected communities. However, around 11 PM on Wednesday, the leopard entered Bhatta Bargad Purwa in search of prey and finally stepped into one of the baited cages, triggering the trap mechanism.
News of the successful capture spread rapidly through the villages, drawing large crowds of curious and relieved residents who gathered to catch a glimpse of the captured predator. Forest officials quickly arrived at the scene and, amid tight security arrangements, transported the caged leopard to the Nishangada range office using a tractor trolley.
Medical Examination and Planned Relocation
Forest department authorities have announced that a panel of three veterinary doctors will conduct a thorough medical examination of the captured leopard. Following this assessment and upon receiving orders from higher authorities, the animal will be relocated to a safe and appropriate habitat away from human settlements. This standard procedure aims to ensure both human safety and the welfare of the wild animal.
Residents of both Azamgarh Purwa and Bhatta Bargad Purwa expressed profound relief following the leopard's capture, with many hoping to return to their normal daily routines without the constant threat of the predator lurking nearby.
Separate Wildlife Incident in Nearby Village
In a related development highlighting ongoing human-wildlife conflict in the region, a calf tied in a villager's courtyard in Gaudiya village was dragged away by an unidentified wild animal during the night. The carcass was later discovered in a field, though officials have not confirmed whether this incident is connected to the captured leopard. This separate attack underscores the broader challenges faced by communities living near forested areas where wildlife encounters are becoming increasingly common.
