Wayanad, Kerala: A dramatic attempt to control a runaway buffalo in Panamaram on Sunday morning ended with minor injuries to several locals after forest department personnel opened fire with pellet guns to subdue the animal.

The buffalo, brought in for slaughter, broke loose and began charging through the area, triggering panic among residents. Despite efforts by locals, police, and fire and rescue teams to contain it, the animal remained aggressive and even attacked a forest official.

With all other attempts failing, forest officers fired pellets at the buffalo to bring it down. While the animal was eventually shot, stray pellets hit some of the bystanders who had gathered nearby to watch the commotion.

According to Panamaram police, the injuries were non-critical, and none of the affected individuals have filed a formal complaint yet. “The injured received treatment at a nearby hospital. If any of them approach us with a complaint, we will register a case,” a police officer stated.

The incident has raised concerns over crowd control and public safety protocols during emergency animal control operations.

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