Wildlife Rangers recover captive bear, halt boar hunt in Punjab

Wildlife Department confirms 13 rescued bears now safe in secure facilities

Punjab Wildlife Rangers have conducted successful combing operations in the Sargodha and Dera Ghazi Khan regions, rescuing a male black bear and foiling an illegal wild boar hunting attempt.

According to the Punjab Wildlife Department, a raid in the Bhalwal area of Sargodha resulted in the recovery of a male black bear that was being illegally held in captivity.

The bear has since been relocated safely to the Wildlife Park in Joharabad. The suspect was caught red-handed and is now in custody, with legal proceedings currently underway.

In a separate incident in Dera Ghazi Khan, wildlife rangers acted promptly on reports of illegal wild boar hunting using dogs. Two individuals were arrested on the spot and fined Rs. 30,000.

Chief Wildlife Ranger Mubeen Elahi affirmed that the department’s combing operations would continue without interruption as part of a wider conservation initiative.

He stressed that rangers are receiving full departmental support and should carry out their duties confidently and without fear.

Read: Punjab launches operation against illegal keeping of big cat

The Wildlife Department also reported that 13 black bears have been rescued from various locations during recent enforcement drives. All recovered animals have been transferred to designated rescue centers and secure wildlife facilities.

These ongoing operations are part of a broader campaign to eliminate illegal hunting practices and the unlawful captivity and trade of wildlife across the province.