27/05/2026
27/05/2026
DHAKA, May 27: Authorities in Bangladesh have seized a rare albino buffalo named “Donald Trump” on the eve of Eid-ul-Azha, triggering controversy and public intrigue after claims of diplomatic concern surfaced around the animal’s fate.
Police in Keraniganj took the unusual step of placing the 700-kilogram buffalo into custody on Wednesday afternoon, citing “security concerns” linked to its planned sacrifice. Officer-in-charge Ruhul Quddus said the move followed intervention from higher authorities, adding that the Home Ministry coordinated the operation.
In a startling twist, officials indicated that the U.S. Embassy had expressed objections to the animal being sacrificed, elevating what began as a local curiosity into an international talking point.
“The buffalo was brought from Rasulpur around 5:00 pm. The US Embassy does not want the buffalo to be sacrificed,” Quddus said, without elaborating on the nature of the concerns.
As a result, the animal’s owner, Sharfa Raj, has been barred from proceeding with the sacrifice, with authorities saying a final decision on the buffalo’s fate will be made later.
The pink-toned albino buffalo had already become a viral sensation ahead of Eid, drawing crowds daily to Rabeya Agro Farm in Narayanganj. Visitors flocked to see the animal, whose pale coloring and distinctive hair pattern—resembling that of former U.S. President Donald Trump—inspired its now-famous name.
Farm owner Zia Uddin Mridha said the buffalo had been raised with special care since it was purchased from Rajshahi after last year’s Eid, noting its calm temperament and unusual appearance made it a standout attraction.
The animal had reportedly been sold to a Dhaka buyer at Tk 550 per kilogram, underscoring its high market value before the sudden intervention.
What began as a festive centerpiece has now turned into a bizarre intersection of diplomacy, local tradition, and public spectacle—leaving many questioning how a sacrificial animal became the subject of international sensitivity.
