Koraput: A radio-collared tiger from Andhra Pradesh’s Papikonda National Park was spotted at Motu forest range in Malkangiri district on Monday, prompting forest officials to step up surveillance and security and alert villagers in adjoining areas.“Authorities in Andhra had alerted us about the tiger,” divisional forest officer (Malkangiri) Sai Kiran DN said, adding, “The tiger is currently moving within the jurisdiction of Motu range and the department has initiated precautionary measures in accordance with the standard operating procedure of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to ensure the safety of villagers and to protect the animal.”“We have deployed rapid response teams and frontline staff to continuously monitor the tiger’s movement. Villagers have been advised to remain vigilant, avoid vulnerable areas and refrain from approaching or disturbing the animal,” he said.Awareness campaigns are also being conducted in nearby villages to sensitise residents about the animal’s movement and the precautions they need to take. Villagers have been advised to remain vigilant, avoid entering vulnerable areas and refrain from disturbing or approaching the tiger.“The forest department is closely monitoring the situation to prevent any untoward incidents. Officials have also been asked to immediately report fresh sightings, pugmarks or any unusual movement to the nearest forest personnel,” Sai added.