Leopard Suspected in Fatal Attack Captured in Bageshwar District
In a significant development, forest officials in Bageshwar district have successfully captured a leopard believed to be responsible for the tragic death of a 63-year-old woman in Mankot village. The big cat has been safely transferred to Almora zoo, according to statements released by the forest department on Monday.
Intensive Tracking and Capture Operation
Forest authorities implemented a comprehensive strategy to locate and apprehend the dangerous predator. Officials conducted intensive patrolling and monitoring activities to track the leopard's movements throughout the village area. As part of their tactical approach, three cages were strategically installed at key locations within Mankot village.
"A thorough search operation was executed on Sunday night, and our team maintained constant surveillance on the leopard until its successful capture," explained Forest Range Officer Kevlanand Pandey. The operation demonstrated the department's commitment to resolving wildlife conflicts while ensuring public safety.
Medical Examination and Identification
The captured leopard, identified as a 13-year-old male, was initially transported to the range office for evaluation. Veterinarian Dr. Gaurav Kohli conducted a detailed medical examination of the animal and confirmed it to be in "healthy" condition. This assessment was crucial for determining the appropriate next steps for the leopard's management.
Previous Sightings and Community Concerns
Forest officials revealed that the leopard had been previously captured on CCTV cameras installed throughout the village and had been frequently spotted near residential areas. Village head Deepak Khetwal reported that the leopard was observed near the location where the woman's body was discovered, prompting immediate alerts to the forest department.
Tragic Incident Details
The fatal attack occurred on January 7 when Devki Devi, accompanied by her son, ventured into the nearby forest to douse a fire. Her body was later discovered in Malta forest, approximately 2 kilometers from Mankot village. This tragic incident created widespread panic among local residents, who subsequently became hesitant to leave their homes, particularly during early morning and evening hours when leopard activity typically increases.
Community Impact and Resolution
The capture of the leopard represents a significant relief for the villagers who had been living in fear since the attack. The forest department's prompt response and systematic approach to wildlife management have helped restore a sense of security in the community. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of human-wildlife conflict in Uttarakhand's forested regions and the importance of coordinated efforts between forest authorities and local communities to address such situations effectively.
