In a sweeping crackdown across Punjab, authorities have arrested five individuals and seized 13 lions that were being kept unlawfully in private residences. The operation, led by the Punjab Wildlife Department, aims to curb the illegal possession and trade of wild animals.
Wildlife officials conducted inspections at 22 locations across the province, uncovering widespread violations. In Lahore, four lions were recovered and four people were taken into custody. Gujranwala saw the seizure of four lions, while two more were confiscated in Faisalabad. Multan reported three lions being kept in homes, leading to further arrests and FIRs.
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Punjab’s Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb condemned the practice, calling it a serious threat to public safety and a violation of wildlife laws. “There will be no compromise on public safety. Keeping lions unlawfully is not only a criminal offence but also a serious societal risk,” she stated.
She reaffirmed that a zero-tolerance policy is being enforced, with indiscriminate action underway across the province. The public has been urged to report any illegal possession of lions by calling the helpline 1107 for immediate response.
