A video of a leopard running wild and attacking residents of the DHA housing society of Pakistan’s Islamabad has gone viral.
People became frightened and anxious due to the presence of the animal which was seen in various areas. In response, many citizens chose to stay inside to protect themselves.
Video of leopard on the loose attacking citizens of DHA Islamabad goes viral
The police also confirmed that a female wildlife officer had been attacked by the leopard, Geo News reported.
“She only survived because she was wearing a protective jacket,” the authorities said.
WATCH: A leopard is roaming around, entering houses and attacking people in one of the most expensive housing societies of Pakistan's capital Islamabad pic.twitter.com/kqQ1xXd8my
— Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) February 16, 2023
In the effort to capture the leopard, three wildlife officials were injured while attempting to set up traps. However, despite their efforts, the leopard was able to break the net twice and escape.
Once word got out about the leopard, government officials quickly mobilized emergency personnel to handle the situation.
The animal sought refuge in a building that was still being built, which made it challenging for the authorities to take it into custody.
#Islamabad: #Leopard on the go in DHA2 sector A & D. Commuters and residents are requested to take precautions. #ChampAlertsOnTheGo #CAOTG pic.twitter.com/oJITdxUtNx
— Shaheryar Hassan (@shaheryarhassan) February 16, 2023
The rescue teams had to wait outside the building and come up with a plan to safely capture the leopard without causing harm to anyone. The construction workers were taken by surprise when they saw the leopard and quickly fled to the rooftop to avoid any potential attack.
The incident was captured on video by bystanders and has become popular on social media.
Incident raises concerns about animal control measures in the area
The wildlife officials are still attempting to capture the animal. The Wildlife Management Board has advised the residents to be careful and limit their movements, and announcements have been made via local mosques.
This event has raised concerns about the adequacy of animal control measures in the area, especially in residential neighborhoods, where such incidents can have devastating consequences.
Wildlife experts were consulted to provide insights into leopard behavior and recommend appropriate measures to protect both the animal and citizens. The incident has underscored the importance of better animal control measures and the need to appreciate and respect wildlife.
Last year, three leopards entered into the Margalla hills area of Islamabad and a group of Islamabad Capital Police officers were dispatched.
