An unsettling incident has been reported in Perak, Malaysia, where a suspected tiger attack has resulted in the death of two cattle and the disappearance of five others near Chemor. The event, which unfolded in the Bukit Bangkong area of Tanah Hitam, roughly 20 kilometers from Ipoh, has prompted a swift response from local authorities and wildlife officials.
Investigation Launched After Livestock Owner's Report
The alarm was raised on December 5 when a livestock owner lodged a report at the Tanah Hitam police station. The owner discovered two of his cattle deceased, bearing distinct bite marks, while five other animals from his herd were nowhere to be found. This discovery immediately pointed towards a possible encounter with a wild predator.
Perak police chief Noor Hisam Nordin confirmed that following the report, police personnel from the Tanah Hitam station, alongside experts from the Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan), were dispatched to the affected site. Their immediate objective was to conduct an initial assessment and begin monitoring the situation.
Camera Traps Installed to Verify Tiger Presence
In a proactive move to verify the presence and track the movements of the suspected tiger, Perhilitan has strategically installed camera traps throughout the area. These devices are crucial for gathering evidence and understanding the predator's habits, which will inform subsequent management strategies.
Ongoing Monitoring and Public Safety Advisory
Authorities have assured the public that monitoring efforts are ongoing. Information gathered from the site will be continually shared among relevant agencies, including local police and Perhilitan, to facilitate effective risk assessment. The primary goals are to protect local residents from potential threats and manage the wildlife situation responsibly.
The police chief issued an urgent plea to the public: "Residents are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution, avoid venturing near forest fringes, and under no circumstances provoke wild animals for their own safety." He also urged anyone with relevant information to contact the Tanah Hitam police station or Perhilitan immediately, emphasizing that timely information is vital for ongoing investigations and the implementation of swift safety measures. This incident underscores the delicate balance between human settlements and wildlife habitats in regions like Perak.