Baramulla, Aug 1: Panic continues to grip residents of Kanlibagh in Baramulla following repeated sightings of leopards in the area since last night, prompting the Wildlife Department to intensify efforts to trace and capture the animals.

Locals said that two to three leopards have been roaming around the locality, creating fear among residents and forcing many people to remain indoors, particularly during the evening and early morning hours.

Residents further stated that the Wildlife Department had installed trapping cages around ten days ago in an attempt to capture the leopards. However, the animals have so far managed to evade the traps.

Following fresh reports of leopard movement, officials from the Wildlife Department reached Kanlibagh on Saturday and launched a search operation. The department also relocated and reinstalled a trapping cage at a new spot where recent leopard movement was reported.

Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant, avoid venturing into isolated areas alone, and immediately inform the Wildlife Department if any leopard movement is spotted.The search and trapping operation is currently underway.