A rampaging buffalo knocked down a motorcycle when it charged through a street, terrifying locals in northern Thailand.

The farm animal had leapt off a truck headed for the slaughterhouse and began wreaking havoc on residents in Chiang Mai province on June 8.

Footage shows the bull barreling across the pavement before ramming into a two-wheeler near the sidewalk. The driver moved out of the way as the creature tripped over the vehicle in its frenzy.

The buffalo also sparked panic after running in front of revellers at a local bar.

Authorities said a motorcycle rider and three people, including a tourist standing outside a massage shop, were injured during the rampage and taken to the hospital to be treated.

A local animal rescue team later caught the five-year-old farm animal after it exhausted itself and fell into an open manhole. They later returned to its relieved owner who agreed to pay for the damage caused.

Locals said they were shocked to see the animal charging down the road, which was captured on CCTV.

Cafe owner Peeranut said: 'It was terrifying for my customers. They were drinking and having a relaxing time when the buffalo suddenly charged towards them. Fortunately they were not injured but other people were.'

Residents called the emergency services who arrived to find the beast had plunged into a 6ft deep hole that had been dug to move power lines underground.

A rescue team used tranquilizers and brought in a crane to carefully winch the buffalo to safety.

The owner, Suphanat, said he had recently bought the buffalo along with four others from a nearby market. It had been due to be slaughtered but broke free from a truck.

He said: 'This buffalo was very aggressive. I don't know how it escaped. It must be very strong. From now on, I'll be more careful.'

Officials from the local council have bought the buffalo and will keep it as a residential animal in a park.