Tiger, bear scare residents in Riau

Residents of Tunjung Sari village in the Riau regency of Indragiri Hulu have been living in fear over the last two months as a Sumatran tiger and a bear have roamed their village and preyed on their cattle.

A local resident, Tohbasir, said villagers had restricted themselves from outdoor activities after the dusk as they were afraid of possible attacks from the animals. He said the beasts used to look for their preys at night.

“No one dares to leave home. Sometimes the bear tried to enter their houses,” he said as quoted by Antara news agency.
   
He added that the carnivores had mauled not only cattle but also their pets, such as dogs.

“We have asked the local authorities to take actions, but they have not given any response,” he said.
 
Head of Riau Natural Resources Conservation Center, Trisunu Danis Woro, said forest rangers would be sent to drive the tiger and bear back to their habitat in Kerumutan Conservatory. He added the animals’ incursion was a result of expansion of an industrial forestry company.