Reports of hyenas in Rangeli stir concern, but officials find no evidence
For now, officials say the situation is under observation and have urged the public not to panic or spread unverified information.
KATHMANDU: Claims of hyenas being spotted in Rangeli over the past week have sparked widespread discussion on social media, though authorities say there is still no confirmed sighting.
Photos showing what appeared to be a group of hyenas on a roadside were widely shared online, prompting public concern.
However, the Division Forest Office in Morang stated that no evidence has been found to verify the reports.
After receiving information, the office deployed a rescue team, but the animal was not located, said Utsav Thapa, Chief of the Division Forest Office. The team also questioned the individual who initially reported the sighting before returning.
Earlier, rumors of a leopard in the area had already put local authorities on alert, leading the Division Forest Office to request additional support from the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve’s rescue unit.
Rangeli Municipality Ward No. 5 Chairperson Mahand Mandal said some locals claimed to have seen a group of hyenas on Saturday night.
In response, a police team from the Area Police Office, Rangeli, was also mobilized. But the police confirmed that no hyena was found.
For now, officials say the situation is under observation and have urged the public not to panic or spread unverified information.
