A majestic jaguar being used in an Olympic torch ceremony was shot dead by the Brazilian Army in Manaus on Monday shortly after the event, prompting an international uproar.
The jaguar, named Juma, managed to escape from her cage following the ceremony. A team of military veterinarians shot tranquilizers into the animal after it escaped, but she nonetheless approached a soldier and was killed with a single pistol shot.
“The animal, even hit, charged at a soldier that was in the location,” said the Amazon Military Command (CMA) in a statement. “As security procedure and in protection of the physical integrity of the soldier and the team, the animal was shot with a pistol and died.”
People questioned the authorities’ decision to use Juma at the event.
“An inhumane attitude, consequence of a ‘super idea.’ Sincerely? Who was the “genius.” #jaguar,” said one Twitter user.
“#army kills a #jaguar that didn’t want to be there all because of a s–t OLYMPICS? Everyone go F@$& yourselves #everythingIDIOT #Brazil #olympictorch,” said another person.
People also expressed their frustration with Juma’s tragic death by posting special graphics in honor of the feline.
“Modality: shot #Manaus #olympics2016 #olympictorch @OlympicGames @Rio2016.”
The jaguar is the symbol of Brazil’s troubled 2016 Summer Olympic Games.