A giant male hyena reportedly escaped from Imo Zoological Garden and wildlife park located at Nekede in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State. This has led to panic within the area and environ.
The News Agency of Nigeria NAN reports that the hyena escaped from the park on Monday morning.
The General Manager of the park, Mr Francis Abioye, confirmed the development to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Owerri.
Abioye however said that the animal was caught by wildlife experts in the zoo, six hours after its escape.
He said that the incident caused panic in Nekede, the host community, in Owerri West Local Government Area of the state.
The general manager, who led the operation, said that the animal was recaptured through what he called the “Physical Restricted Method”.
He expressed joy that the incident did not record any casualty.
According to him, the animal dug a big underground hole inside the zoo, which made it possible for it to escape from the cage.
“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.
“The animal was able to escape from the premises through a vandalised part of the perimeter fence within the conservative area of the zoo,” Abioye said.