Panic spread among students and faculty at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) on Wednesday after reports claimed that a leopard had entered the university campus, the private media channel reported.
According to the sources, students spotted the animal in bushes inside the university, which caused fear and concern.
After receiving the reports, the university administration took immediate action by contacting the Wildlife Department and the capital police to handle the situation.
In an official statement, an IIUI spokesperson said the university had received reports of a suspected leopard sighting and was currently verifying the information.
The spokesperson added that officials are also reviewing a video circulating on social media, saying they have not yet confirmed the report.
The university spokesperson also said that the authorities are checking the viral video of a leopard, whether it’s real or not.
“The safety of students is our top priority. Surveillance on campus has been enhanced, and all relevant authorities, including wildlife officials, have been put on alert,” the spokesperson said.
To avoid any inconvenience, the university administration advised students to stay in their rooms.
Azaad Digital talked to one of the university students about the situation in the hostel. The student confirmed that they got a notification from the university administration to stay in their room. He showed satisfaction with the current situation as university management is tackling the issue professionally.
However, the wildlife department said that the leopards are a natural species of the Margla hills, and sometimes they roam outside of their habitat.
“Leopards have adapted to human presence to some extent, and responsible coexistence with humans is equally important,” wildlife officials said. The wildlife officials stated that the situation is being watched closely.
Police officials are also present in the university for students’ safety.
