Palghar, Maharashtra: Panic has gripped the Dhamangaon and Karanjgaon areas of Talasari taluka in Palghar district after a leopard attacked two people in separate incidents on Saturday morning. Both victims, a woman and a man, sustained serious injuries and are currently undergoing treatment at the Talasari Sub-District Hospital.

The first attack occurred around 8:30 am in the Patilpada area of Karanjgaon. Gulab Madhukar Vartha, a woman working in a chikoo orchard, was suddenly attacked by a leopard lying in wait. Hearing her screams, nearby residents rushed to the spot, prompting the leopard to flee.

About half an hour later, at around 9 am, another attack was reported in the Aptolpada area of Dhamangaon. Rajya Kakadya Chimda was working in a chili field when the same or another leopard struck. As in the earlier case, the animal escaped shortly after the incident.

The twin attacks have sparked widespread fear in the area. Locals have begun moving in groups while commuting or working in orchards. The Forest Department has urged residents to remain vigilant, avoid going out alone, and take extra precautions in farmland and orchards.

In response, forest and wildlife officials have launched an intensive search operation to locate and capture the leopard. Traps have been set in the area, and all possible measures are being taken to ensure public safety. Officials believe the leopard may have entered the village outskirts in search of food.

Forest officials continue to monitor wildlife activity in the region and are appealing to the public to report any sightings immediately.