Assam: Leopard trapped in Tingkhong village after 18 months of livestock attacks

A large female leopard was captured in a cage at No. 1 Nachani Jokai village in Tingkhong on August 29, providing temporary relief to residents who have been living in fear of leopard attacks for nearly one-and-a-half years.

According to local residents, leopards have been roaming in the village and adjoining areas for around 18 months and have killed several livestock, including cattle and goats. The repeated incidents had also raised concerns over the safety of villagers.

In an effort to prevent further attacks, local youths installed a cage in the village on Saturday afternoon. Within just 30 minutes, a large female leopard was trapped inside the cage.

Forest Department officials subsequently took custody of the animal and made arrangements to release it in a forested area.

However, residents said the threat from other leopards remains. They claimed that three different leopards were heard growling and creating panic at the other end of the village even after the female leopard was captured.

Residents have therefore urged the Forest Department to urgently install three additional cages at strategic locations in the middle and far end of the village to capture the other leopards and ensure the safety of the local population.