Into the wild: Three injured in bear attack in Kaghan

More than five people wounded in similar attacks over past few months

MANSEHRA: At least three people were injured after being attacked by bears in separate incidents in Kaghan Valley on Saturday.

A police official told The Express Tribune on Sunday, Sajid Mehmood, a resident of Shangriyan village and a student of class eight, was on his way home with his mother, Razia Bibi, when he was attacked by a wild bear in the neighbouring village.

“The mother and son were passing through a forest when the bear attacked the boy,” the official said.

He added Razia Bibi tried to save her son by throwing stones at the bear. However, the animal attacked her as well.



“Locals heard their screams, rushed to the forest and frightened the bear,” the official said. “Both the mother and her son wounded. They were shifted to a hospital in Balakot. Sajid is in critical condition and has been referred to Ayub Medical Complex Abbottabad for further treatment.”

Separately, Liaquat, son of Noorani, was attacked and wounded by a bear in Bela Sacha area of Hangrai union council on Saturday. Speaking to The Express Tribune on Sunday, Liaquat said he was returning home when the incident occurred.

“I was taken to a hospital in Balakot,” he said. “I had scars and bruises all over my face, chest and hands. Doctors discharged me after treatment.”

According to locals, more than five people have been attacked by bears in Kaghan Valley over the past
few months.

“We have repeatedly pressed the wildlife department to take suitable measures to protect people from wild animals,” a
resident said.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 8^th, 2015.