In India, wolves are spreading terror near the border with Nepal. In two months, ten people have died in the state of Uttar Pradesh after several attacks. The authorities have launched a giant hunt to catch these animals that have left their natural habitat.
From our correspondent in Bangalore, Côme Bastin
The attacks began in May 2024 in villages in rural Bahraich district in Inde. And, this Monday, September 2, seven children were killed at dawn, during a power cut. A little girl was abducted by wolves, her body found 500 meters from the village. Another child was injured during the night of this Thursday, September 5.
Wolves do not usually attack humans. Several factors may have pushed them to do so, such as heavy monsoons, but also human activities that have nibbled away at their ecosystem. Some villagers chase them away, which can lead to aggressive behavior. The lack of doors and sufficient lighting can finally push them to venture into poor dwellings.
In any case, there is urgency because the local population is terrified by these attacks. A team of nine hunters is in pursuit of the group of canines. The authorities have also deployed drones, cameras and traps. Three wolves were caught and sent to a zoo. This is indeed a protected species in India, which is however given less attention than tigers.
- RFI
