'Monkey Man' hysteria grips New Delhi

Indian authorities are trying to quell hysteria over rumours surrounding the death of two people and attacks on 65 others being…

Indian authorities are trying to quell hysteria over rumours surrounding the death of two people and attacks on 65 others being attributed to a 'Monkey Man'.

Police in New Delhi have received more than 80 distress calls last night as people mistook real monkeys and even a dog for the 'Monkey Man'. State executive member Mr Abhimanyu Gulati has sent counsellors into the community to warn people about believing the rumours.

The city has been gripped by rumours of a monkey-like beast with supernatural powers attacking people at night.

Police have begun to crack down on jokers who've been fuelling 'Monkey Man' hysteria. They've arrested two people in east Delhi on charges of creating panic.

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One man was arrested in Shakarpur for throwing doctors' gloves on to the street in an attempt to frighten people, the Timesof India reports.

Several people were detained when police began visiting 'victims' and questioning residents.

Several people have been beaten up as crowds mistakenly believed they were behind the attacks.

There were 10 Monkey Man 'victims' last night - only three were taken to hospital with minor scratches and injuries they suffered while fleeing in panic.

PA