Big cat spotted in the south of Saxony-Anhalt

In the south of Saxony-Anhalt, the authorities are on the lookout for a big cat. The animal was spotted in the evening in the area of the Geiseltalsee harbor in Braunsbedra in the Saale district, according to an alert issued by the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Control. "The police are monitoring the area extensively", it said.

The population was warned: "Do not approach the animal under any circumstances! Avoid being in meadows and forests." Anyone who sees the animal should inform the fire and rescue service control center immediately by calling 112.

Almost two years ago, a similar incident in Kleinmachnow, southwest of Berlin, caused a stir: Police, hunters and vets chased a supposed lioness there for around 30 hours using a helicopter and drones - triggered by a cell phone video. It attracted a great deal of international attention, but in the end the alleged predator turned out to be a wild boar. The incident led to a nationwide debate on how to deal with dangerous animals.