Wildlife Team Investigates Rare Hyena Attack in Warrap State

(WARRAP) – Five people were injured on Wednesday morning after two hyenas attacked residents in Malual-Chom, Thiet Payam, Warrap State. The victims, three men and two women, were rushed to Tonj Hospital and are reported to be in stable condition.

According to residents, the incident occurred early in the morning as people were beginning their daily activities. Community members quickly responded, managing to kill one of the hyenas while the other fled into nearby bushland.

Local sources believe the attack may have been provoked by human activity, specifically after hunters allegedly killed a hyena cub the previous day. This has raised concerns about possible retaliatory behaviour from wild animals in the area.

Wildlife authorities have been informed of the incident, and community leaders are urging residents to remain vigilant while the search for the second hyena continues.

Thiet Payam, like much of Warrap State, is known for its proximity to wildlife habitats, where human-animal encounters are not uncommon. However, attacks of this nature are rare and often linked to increased pressure on natural environments due to settlement expansion and hunting.

The Tonj Hospital medical team confirmed that the injured individuals suffered bite wounds and scratches but were responding well to treatment. No fatalities were reported.

The incident has prompted renewed calls for wildlife awareness and safety measures in rural communities, including better coordination between residents and local wildlife officers to prevent similar incidents in the future.

If the escaped hyena is not located soon, wildlife officials warn that further encounters cannot be ruled out, particularly if the animal feels threatened or is searching for food