Anantnag, Dec 17 (JKNS): A five-year-old girl was killed after being attacked by a leopard near her residence at Gallan Gujjar Basti in village Khiram of Srigufwara area in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Wednesday evening, officials said.
Official sources told news agency JKNS, the minor namely Sumaya daughter of Reyaz Ahmad, was attacked by the wild animal when she was near her house. The leopard reportedly dragged the child into nearby bushes before fleeing the area.
Soon after the incident, locals raised an alarm and launched a search operation. Police, forest department officials and rescue teams rushed to the spot and conducted extensive searches. After several hours, the body of the child was recovered from a bushy area some distance away from the habitation.
Officials said the minor had sustained fatal injuries and was declared dead on the spot. The body was later shifted for medico-legal formalities.
The incident has triggered fear and panic among residents of the area, with locals expressing concern over repeated leopard movement close to human settlements. Many residents said movement, especially for children, has become risky during evening hours.
Meanwhile, forest department teams have been deployed in the area to track and trap the leopard. People have been advised to remain vigilant and avoid venturing out alone, particularly after dusk.
Police have taken cognizance of the incident and further proceedings are underway. (JKNS)