Wildlife Rangers arrest suspects over skinning of dead lion in Lahore

Wildlife officials also recover large number of stuffed animals from suspect’s residence during search operation

LAHORE:

Wildlife Rangers in Lahore arrested suspects involved in skinning a dead African lion after a video of the incident went viral on social media, officials said on Saturday.

The Wildlife Rangers launched an investigation and conducted raids after the video circulated online. Lahore Deputy Chief Wildlife Ranger Sakhi Muhammad Joiya said, "The suspects were operating an illegal taxidermy business in the Begum Kot area, where skins of dead wild animals were removed and preserved".

According to Joiya, the main suspect, identified as Haroon, had been arrested and a case registered against him, while other suspects managed to flee during the raid. Wildlife officials also recovered a large number of stuffed animals from the suspect's residence during the search operation.

However, officials said the remains of the lion shown in the video have not yet been recovered.

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According to the wildlife department, three to four families were allegedly involved in the illegal preservation and stuffing of wild animals and birds. Officials said the case had exposed an illegal network allegedly operating in violation of wildlife protection laws.

Stuffed animals and hunting trophies are commonly displayed in drawing rooms and private residences in Pakistan, but wildlife authorities say the practice becomes a criminal offence when carried out without legal permission.

Under the Punjab Wildlife Act 1974 and subsequent amendments, individuals keeping wild animals or birds in private captivity are required to obtain licences from the wildlife department. The law also obligates owners to immediately inform wildlife authorities if a captive wild animal or bird dies.

Skinning, preserving, stuffing or retaining any body part of such an animal without official approval is considered illegal and punishable under the law. Taxidermy work, according to wildlife officials, may only be carried out by licensed taxidermists with written permission from the department. Violations may lead to criminal proceedings, including imprisonment and heavy fines.