Wildlife Crackdown in Punjab 2025 – Four Arrested, Nilgai, Hog Deer & Black Bears Rescued
Punjab’s Wildlife Department has intensified its province-wide operations against illegal hunting, wildlife trafficking, and unauthorised possession of endangered species. Several successful actions were recently carried out in Kasur, Okara, Multan, and Lodhran, resulting in multiple animal rescues and the arrest of four suspects involved in wildlife crimes.
This detailed article explains the full story, rescue operations, arrests, wildlife threats, government action, and why such crackdowns are important for Pakistan’s ecological future.
Overview of Punjab’s Wildlife Protection Drive
The Punjab government, under Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb and the Secretary of Forests, has launched an aggressive campaign to stop illegal wildlife activities. The crackdown is being supervised by Chief Wildlife Ranger Mubeen Elahi, who is leading field teams across the province.
The campaign focuses on:
- Stopping illegal hunting
- Recovering endangered species
- Disrupting wildlife trafficking networks
- Rescuing injured animals
- Protecting habitats near border areas
Major Wildlife Rescue Operations Across Punjab
1. Injured Female Hog Deer Rescued in Changa Manga
The first breakthrough came when an injured female hog deer was spotted trapped in a water channel near Changa Manga.
Assistant Chief Wildlife Ranger Zohha Warraich led the emergency rescue operation.
How the Rescue Happened
- Local teams rushed to the site after receiving information.
- The hog deer was safely removed from the water channel.
- First aid and medical care were provided on the spot.
- The animal was shifted to Changa Manga Deer Safari for rehabilitation.
Why This Rescue Was Important
Hog deer are endangered due to:
- Habitat destruction
- Poaching
- Illegal trading
Saving even a single hog deer helps protect the species’ future population.
2. Female Nilgai Captured Safely in Okara Border Belt
Another major rescue operation took place in the Dipalpur border area of Okara, where a female nilgai had wandered away from its natural habitat and moved close to populated regions.
Assistant Chief Wildlife Ranger Muhammad Sarfaraz, with support from Pakistan Rangers, captured the animal safely.
Key Points
- No injury occurred during capture.
- Nilgai was transported to Sulemanki Wildlife Park.
- Experts stated the incident shows shrinking wildlife habitats due to human encroachment.
Nilgai & Habitat Pressure
Nilgai movement toward human areas is increasing due to:
- Agricultural expansion
- Border fencing
- Deforestation
- Water scarcity in natural habitats
3. Two Black Bears Recovered in Lodhran – Four Arrested
The most critical raid was conducted in Lodhran, where two black bears were recovered from illegal captivity.
Deputy Chief Wildlife Ranger Dr. Sajjad Hussain led the targeted raid.
Key Developments
- Two rare black bears found kept illegally.
- Four suspects present at the site were arrested immediately.
- Legal action and cases under Punjab Wildlife Act have been started.
Wildlife Trafficking Threat
Black bears are highly endangered and often exploited for:
- Illegal entertainment
- Commercial display
- Body parts trade
4. Seizure of Quail Netting Gear in Multan
In a related crackdown in Multan, authorities seized two quail netting gears used for illegal trapping of birds.
This action is part of the department’s strategy to eliminate:
- Unauthorized trapping
- Commercial bird hunting
- Illegal wildlife trade markets
Why Illegal Wildlife Trade Is Increasing
Punjab faces growing pressure on its wildlife due to several factors:
1. Habitat Loss
Urban expansion, farming, and construction projects are destroying natural forests and grasslands.
2. Commercial Wildlife Trafficking
Wildlife trading mafias target:
- Rare birds
- Exotic animals
- Endangered mammals
3. Weak Public Awareness
Many citizens do not understand wildlife protection laws, leading to:
- Keeping wild animals as pets
- Buying endangered animals illegally
- Supporting illegal hunting unknowingly
4. High Profit for Traffickers
Rare species bring high prices in black markets, encouraging criminals to continue illegal operations.
Government’s Wildlife Protection Measures
The Punjab government has strengthened its enforcement model.
Key Measures
- Daily surveillance in border regions
- Collaboration with Pakistan Rangers
- Strengthened penalties under wildlife laws
- Monitoring of illegal markets
- Establishment of rescue and rehabilitation centers
- Public awareness campaigns
Officials have also stated that operations will continue without interruption until wildlife trafficking is fully curbed.
Impact of These Operations on Punjab’s Ecosystem
1. Protection of Endangered Species
Rescuing hog deer, black bears, and nilgai directly contributes to stabilizing their population.
2. Disruption of Wildlife Crime Networks
Arrests weaken organized groups involved in illegal animal trade.
3. Reduction in Illegal Hunting
Seizing trapping equipment helps reduce poaching activity.
4. Promotion of Ecological Balance
Wildlife plays a vital role in:
- Controlling natural food chains
- Maintaining forest diversity
- Supporting healthy ecosystems
Challenges Still Faced in Protecting Wildlife
Despite successful raids, Punjab continues to face major challenges:
Insufficient Resources
Wildlife rangers have limited manpower and equipment.
Difficult Terrain
Border belt areas are sensitive and large, making surveillance difficult.
Powerful Trafficking Mafias
Organized networks often operate secretly, making detection hard.
Public Involvement
Local communities sometimes unknowingly support poaching activities.
How Citizens Can Help Protect Wildlife
The public can play an important role. Here’s how:
✔ Report illegal wildlife possession
To Wildlife Department helplines.
✔ Avoid buying wild animals
Illegal trade increases demand.
✔ Do not support poachers or hunters
Even watching such activities encourages them.
✔ Promote awareness
Educate friends and family about wildlife laws.
✔ Support rescue operations
By cooperating with authorities and NGOs.
Conclusion
Punjab’s intensified wildlife protection operations show the government’s growing commitment to saving endangered species and stopping illegal wildlife trade. The rescue of a hog deer, female nilgai, and two black bears, along with the arrest of four suspects, marks a major achievement in the fight against wildlife crimes.
These actions are not only important for law enforcement but also essential for safeguarding Pakistan’s ecological future. Continued operations, public support, awareness campaigns, and strong legal enforcement will help ensure a safer environment for wildlife across Punjab.
FAQs Punjab Wildlife Crackdown 2025
1. Why were the wildlife operations conducted in Punjab?
To stop illegal hunting, recover endangered animals, and dismantle wildlife trafficking networks.
2. Which animals were rescued during the operations?
A female hog deer, a female nilgai, and two black bears were safely recovered.
3. How many people were arrested in the Lodhran raid?
Four suspects were arrested and cases were filed under wildlife laws.
4. What is the biggest threat to wildlife in Punjab?
Habitat loss, poaching, and illegal trafficking networks.
5. Will the wildlife crackdown continue?
Yes, the Wildlife Department has confirmed that operations will continue across the province.
