Zoo gets custody of seized infant monkeys

The monkeys were recovered from a passenger bus coming from Charsadda district of K-P

KARACHI:

A district and sessions judge has slapped a fine of Rs100,000 on man for smuggling 14 infant monkeys from Charsadda district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

The Sindh Wildlife Department presented both the arrested suspect and the baby monkeys before the court when it took up the case on Friday. The penalty serves as a stern reminder that the exploitation and mistreatment of wildlife will not be tolerated in our society.

During the proceedings, the investigating officer requested the court for sending back the baby monkeys to their natural habitat in K-P. However, the court decided to entrust the care and well-being of these creatures to the Karachi Zoo administration. By doing so, the court ensures that the baby monkeys will receive the attention, environment, and supervision they deserve.

The court set a deadline of August 7 for the IO to submit a comprehensive report detailing the circumstances that led to the recovery of the monkeys and highlighting the steps to prevent such incidents in the future.

Amid the court proceedings, a moment of suspense arose when one of the 14 monkeys managed to escape. The unexpected turn of events set off a brief commotion, but the Wildlife Department staff refused to relent.

The baby monkey was recaptured after 18 hours of struggle. The little adventurer sought refuge in a nearby tree and, later, cleverly hid in a bathroom. Thanks to the collaborative spirit and swift action of all involved, the creature was returned to safety.

As the case draws to a close, a Wildlife Department officer assures that the baby monkey, along with its companions, will now be transferred to the care of the zoo management. In the hands of the zoo staff, the little monkeys will be nurtured and protected, allowing them to thrive in an environment that simulates their natural habitat.

As per Javed Mehr, a conservator with the Wildlife Department, the monkeys were recovered from a passenger bus coming from Charsadda during a snap-check at Karachi Toll Plaza on the M-9 Motorway. A case was filed against the suspect under the Wildlife Protection Laws of Sindh.

This case serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of safeguarding our wildlife and treating all living beings with respect and empathy.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 22^nd, 2023.