A wave of fear has swept through the region near Bundu-Namkum, near Ranchi, following the sighting of a tiger or leopard in the Heso forest, part of the Lali Panchayat. On Monday, villagers reported that three of their cattle were attacked and killed by a wild animal while grazing. Upon receiving the information, local officials, including Aarti Kujur, and the forest department quickly arrived at the scene to investigate the situation.
The initial assessment indicates an attack by a large predator, possibly a tiger or leopard. Evidence at the scene included clear claw marks and footprints, confirming the nature of the attack. The discovery of the mauled cattle has instilled fear in the community. Aarti Kujur noted that residents heard sounds like animal roars during the night, possibly linked to the attacks. She has urged residents to be cautious and the forest department has increased patrols. Residents are advised not to enter the forest at night and to keep their livestock in groups while grazing.