In a significant crackdown on wildlife trafficking, a special squad from Punjab’s wildlife department has rescued nearly 1,000 illegally captured lizards during a raid in the Raiwind area and apprehended several suspected poachers. The suspects were allegedly attempting to sell these lizards, known locally as ‘sanda’ lizards, which are sought after for the expensive oil extracted from their fat.
The operation was initiated following intelligence tips about a trafficking operation where the lizards were being brought to a gathering in Raiwind. The captured lizards were taken from the nearby Changa Manga area, where traps were reportedly set to immobilize them. Authorities discovered that the traffickers had deliberately broken the lizards’ spines to prevent them from escaping, a disturbing tactic used to facilitate their transport.
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A senior wildlife official expressed concerns about possible corruption within the department, suggesting that some local employees might be involved in the illegal trade. The fat from these lizards is often marketed as a treatment for various health issues, including sexual dysfunction and muscular weakness, leading to high demand in both local and international markets.
The hunting and trafficking of these lizards are prohibited under the Punjab Wildlife Act. Following the raid, authorities have registered a case against the suspects, who now face prosecution. Reports indicate that the seized lizards had sustained significant injuries, hindering their mobility.
This raid is part of broader efforts by Punjab authorities to combat illegal hunting and wildlife trafficking. Recently, 17 poachers were arrested across several districts, including Lahore, Gujranwala, Mianwali, Khanewal, Layyah, and Bahawalnagar. In another operation, officials prevented the smuggling of 50 Alexandrine parrots between provinces, leading to fines amounting to Rs325,000.
Under the leadership of Deputy Director Wildlife for the Lahore Region, Dr. Ghulam Rasool, Assistant Director Junaid Alam successfully apprehended two individuals involved in falcon poaching, resulting in a fine of Rs20,000. In Gujranwala, Deputy Director Wildlife Asim Bashir Cheema’s team arrested a poacher using an air gun to hunt birds, imposing a Rs10,000 fine. These actions highlight the ongoing commitment of wildlife authorities to protect endangered species and enforce legal measures against poaching.
