GEORGE TOWN: A wild boar that led authorities on a chase through several neighbourhoods here has been put down by the Penang Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan).

       Penang Civil Defence Force operations officer Captain Muhammad Aizat Abdul Ghani said in a statement on Friday (Oct 15) the beast had to be shot to keep it from disturbing public order and endangering lives.

       He said the wild boar was seen roaming near Pulau Tikus market and the seafront promenade along Gurney Drive earlier in the morning.

       “The wild boar was first seen roaming freely around Pulau Tikus market.

       “Moments later, a deliveryman called the authorities when he saw the beast in Gurney Drive.

       “Five Civil Defence Force members reached the area at 9.12am, but failed to catch it.

       “We then sought help from Perhilitan," he added.

       According to the statement, the animal was finally cornered and killed in the bushes near the Anjung Gurney Hawker Centre at 9.40am.

       Capt Muhammad Aizat said no one was injured and there was no damage to public property during the operation.