Dhenkanal: A 15-member squad of wildlife personnel from the Nandankanan Zoological Park on Thursday failed in capturing a male monkey in Parajang block of the district.

The monkey has reportedly unleashed a reign of terror at Medhapada village, injuring over 50 persons.

Those involved in the operation tried every possible trick - offered banana and fruits. But the animal kept jumping from one place to the other. Tranquillising rubber bullets were tried to tame it to captivity, but in vain, said a forest official.

"We will try to tame the animal on Friday. If things do not materialise, we will press into service skilled monkey catchers from Nilgiri area of Balasore," he said.

Authorities of the government-run primary school and anganwadi centre at the village were forced to suspend classes and pre-school learning schedule in view of the monkey's biting spree.

"Parents and guardians have stopped sending their wards to school to ensure safety. We are sitting idle in empty classrooms," said a teacher.

The monkey is spotted everywhere - from places of worships, schools to village markets. They animal is snatching away eatables, fruits, vegetables at opportune moments.

"We are fed up with its act of nuisance," said a villager.