Govt swoops in to save globally viral buffalo 'Donald Trump' from slaughter
Owner to be compensated by the govt
The rare albino buffalo named "Donald Trump", which became an internet sensation ahead of Eid-ul-Adha, will not be slaughtered following what officials said was special intervention from the home ministry.
Authorities have decided to take the animal into custody and relocate it to official care, ending plans for its slaughter during the upcoming Eid celebrations.
The buffalo was seen being taken to Keraniganj Police Station from Islamnagar in Zinjira around 5:30pm today (27 May), reports Prothom Alo.
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The animal's owner, Moniruzzaman, told Prothom Alo that he had purchased the buffalo about ten days after the last Eid-ul-Fitr and brought it home from a farm three days ago.
"In the afternoon, police came and said it will be taken by the government. We don't want any conflict. Since the government wants it, we have handed it over," he said.
Asked whether any compensation would be provided, he said, "The government said they will either pay the price or give a sacrificial animal in return."
Keraniganj Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge Ruhul Quddus said the buffalo had been picked up from the owner's residence and would be handed over to the Department of Livestock Services as it is considered a rare breed.
The albino buffalo, known for its striking white coat and distinctive appearance, had gone viral on social media for its supposed resemblance with its namesake, US President Donald Trump.
The animal, originally kept at Rabeya Agro Farm in Narayanganj's Paikpara, was named by the owner's younger brother, Ador, due to its unique look.
After widespread media coverage, the buffalo gained international attention and was featured in reports by several global outlets.
