Leopard on the Loose for 50 Days Finally Trapped

CH NEWS

RAICHUR

After nearly 50 days of fear and tension, a leopard that had been roaming around Parameshwara Hill and the surrounding areas of D Rampur village was finally trapped in a cage on Sunday evening.

The leopard was first sighted near the village outskirts on May 20 and had since killed several street dogs, peacocks, and sheep, taking shelter among the rocky outcrops of the hill. It created panic among residents, especially after it reached the doorstep of a cowshed owned by Kavali Ashok and later entered a hut to carry off two sheep.

Due to the predator’s presence, livestock grazing in the hills came to a halt, and villagers feared venturing out during early mornings and evenings. Locals even used drone surveillance to track the leopard, spotting it resting on rocks.

Despite villagers repeatedly petitioning the forest department, the animal remained elusive. Two cages had been placed a month ago but failed to capture it—until the successful operation on Sunday.

RFO Rajesh Nayak confirmed that the leopard, estimated to be around 2.5 to 3 years old, had finally been caught. The animal will now be relocated, bringing much-needed relief to the community.