Panic in Imo as hyena escapes from zoo

There was panic in Nekede, Imo state, on Monday, over the escape of a male hyena from the zoological garden and wildlife park in the area.

The animal reportedly escaped after digging a hole which was used as its escape route.

Francis Abioye, general manager of the park, told NAN that the animal dug a big underground hole inside the zoo, which made it possible for it to escape from the cage.

He said wildlife experts in the zoo caught it six hours after its escape.

He said the animal was recaptured through a “physical restricted method” aided by operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) attached to the facility zoo.

“I can confirm to you that a giant hyena escaped from its cage early this morning through an underground hole it dug but was later recaptured by experts,” he said.

“The animal was able to escape from the premises through a vandalised part of the perimeter fence within the conservative area of the zoo.”

The general manager said the escape of the hyena had created panic in Nekede.

Abioye urged residents of the community to go about their usual businesses, adding that the situation has been brought under control.