A full-grown leopard weighing between 80 to 90 kgs was sighted in the Indian capital Delhi in the Sainik Farm area, sending shockwaves through the locality.
The forest department, in collaboration with local police, has initiated a comprehensive search operation to capture the elusive big cat. Subodh Kumar, a beat officer from the forest department at Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, said, "We got a call about a leopard that was spotted at night. With the help of the local police, we conducted a search at 9:30 am and spotted the animal near a farmhouse."
The forest department is taking no chances and has strategically placed two trap cages in the area to safely capture the wild visitor, as per media reports citing police officials. Instructions have been issued to the public, urging them to steer clear of these cages, ensuring the safety of both residents and the leopard. Residents in the area have been asked to stay indoors for their safety as the search for the big cat continues.
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Two gripping video clips capturing the leopard's movements have surfaced on social media platforms. It has intensified the intrigue surrounding the leopard roaming freely in the neighbourhood.
One clip purportedly showed a heart-pounding moment as a policeman caught off guard, sprinted away before the agile leopard leapt over a wall and disappeared into the jungle.
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Over 40 personnel, comprising members of the forest department and Delhi Police, have been mobilised to manage the situation. A team has been deployed at the location, as per an official.
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Residents are on high alert as authorities work tirelessly to safely secure the leopard and prevent any untoward incidents in this unexpected wildlife encounter in the Indian capital.
(With inputs from agencies)