Instead of helping the injured leopard or contacting the Wildlife Department, locals attacked the leopard to death with sticks and stones.

The leopard had reportedly wandered out of the forest within the Bakoat police station limits and entered a nearby village. Witnesses stated that it appeared semi-conscious when a rope was fastened around its neck, and it was dragged along the road. Some individuals even pulled it by the tail for several miles. Videos and selfies taken during the incident were widely shared on social media, with some locals claiming the assault was revenge for recent livestock losses.

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Police from the Boi checkpoint eventually reached the scene and, after significant effort, took the injured animal into custody. However, it died shortly after being moved to the police post. The Wildlife Department later collected the body.

Villagers alleged that wild leopards had killed dozens of goats in recent months. Wildlife officials, however, said the leopard’s condition indicated it might have been poisoned or suffering from a brain infection caused by a dangerous virus.

The ongoing human-wildlife conflict has been highlighted by this incident. This demonstrates how often leopards venture into populated areas in search of food. Residents have been urged by the authorities to report such sightings to prevent similar incidents in the future.