Dibrugarh: A female leopard was caged at No. 1 Nachani Jokai village in Tingkhong on Saturday evening.The capture brought relief to 652 families living in fear after repeated leopard attacks on their livestock. The village has a population of 3,164.Residents said leopards repeatedly preyed on cattle and goats in and around the village, raising concerns about the safety of villagers and their animals.Following the attacks, youths installed an iron cage at a strategic location around 5 pm on Saturday. Within about 30 minutes, a large female leopard entered the cage and was trapped.Forest department personnel reached the spot after the capture and took charge of the animal. They tranquilised the leopard and moved it to the forest office.Forest officials said they would conduct a veterinary examination before releasing the animal into a suitable dense forest area away from human habitation.However, residents said the threat remained, claiming that at least three more leopards were present in another part of the village. The animals were reportedly sighted and heard roaring, causing continued panic.“We request the forest department to install at least three more cages at strategic locations, particularly in the middle and far end of the village. This is necessary to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety of people and livestock,” said resident Budhin Gogoi.
