On 18 May, residents of Dubai’s Springs 3 community witnessed something that shook the daylights out of them. Social media was abuzz after a jaguar was spotted strolling in the community. Soon, pictures and videos were circulated on Facebook, and other social channels, suggesting that a jaguar might be let loose. Alternatively, some suggested it might also be a large cat.
Someone whatsapped it to me! This is not my video- it’s been forwarded so many times. No idea what to make of this. Is it really a Jaguar/panther? is it a humongous black cat? Is it a bird? Is it a plane? pic.twitter.com/sRnQNkvNZn
— Noha (@juneonesix) May 18, 2021
Dubai Municipality was informed about the sighting and an emergency search was conducted to spot the wild animal. Later, at night, the Dubai Police confirmed that a wild animal was spotted in Dubai’s Springs community. They said all measure were taken to ensure safety of the residents in The Springs 3 community. Trained professionals are currently conducting an extensive search to locate and capture the animal.
Dubai Police today reassured the community that it is taking all measures to minimise any potential danger to people from a wild animal that was spotted in The Springs 3 area in Dubai.Trained professionals are currently conducting an extensive search to locate&capture the animal.
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) May 18, 2021
However, authorities advised members of The Springs community to exercise all necessary caution. Dubai Police said bringing out any kind of wild animal into a public environment is strictly prohibited under the emirate’s laws and violators can face a jail term of up to six months in addition to severe financial penalties. Dubai Police also urged the public to call 901 if they spot the animal.
However, authorities advised members of The Springs community to exercise all necessary caution. Dubai Police said bringing out any kind of wild animal into a public environment is strictly prohibited under the emirate’s laws,
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) May 18, 2021
People have shared the information online and if you live in the area, please stay alert!
First Published: May 19, 2021 10:08 AM