Raju the chimpanzee passes away at Karachi Zoo

Primate’s demise is one of a string of animal deaths

KARACHI:

A 26-year-old chimpanzee named Raju passed away due to a cardiac arrest within the confines of Karachi Zoo.

Zoo authorities discovered the primate in an unresponsive state within his enclosure on Monday morning.

In a series of unfortunate occurrences at Karachi Zoo, the demise of several animals has garnered public attention.

Over the past year and a half, the zoo has mourned the loss of two lions, an elephant, and numerous cubs.

The most recent casualty is Raju the chimpanzee, with the zoo management attributing his passing to medical reasons.

Observations suggest that inadequate animal care has played a significant role in this distressing trend.

This series of tragedies encompasses the untimely demise of two lions, one elephant, and multiple deer cubs within an 18-month timeframe.

Iqbal Nawaz, the zoo's director, informed that veterinary professionals were summoned to ascertain the cause of death of the 26-year-old chimpanzee.

Raju, a well-known figure within the zoo, has been a prominent presence.

Alongside Raju, the zoo is home to two female chimpanzees.

Further insights into the circumstances surrounding Raju's passing are anticipated subsequent to a post-mortem examination.

Dr MH Pirzada, a consultant at Karachi Zoo, conveyed through a video statement that the chimpanzee suffered a heart attack.