A province-wide crackdown has been launched in Punjab against individuals illegally keeping lions in their homes.
As part of this operation, 13 lions have been seized and 5 individuals arrested, with criminal cases registered under relevant wildlife laws.
According to the Punjab Wildlife Department, inspections were conducted at 22 locations across the province. During these inspections, lions were confiscated and those in violation of the law were detained.
In Lahore alone, four lions were recovered from different localities and four individuals were arrested. In Gujranwala, four lions were seized and one First Information Report (FIR) was registered. In Faisalabad, two lions were taken into custody and one case was filed. Meanwhile, in Multan, three lions were found being kept in private residences, leading to the arrest of one person and the registration of two FIRs.
Punjab Senior Marriyum Aurangzeb stated that the illegal trade and private keeping of wildlife is intolerable. “There will be no compromise on public safety. Keeping lions unlawfully is not only a criminal offence but also a serious societal risk,” she said.
She emphasised that strict implementation of wildlife laws will be ensured and no one is above the law. “Under a zero-tolerance policy, indiscriminate action is underway across Punjab,” she added.
The minister has appealed to the public to report illegal possession of lions by calling 1107, so timely action can be taken.
