Pelicans' eyes stitched shut in smuggling bid

Shocking details have surfaced in a Sindh Wildlife Department investigation, revealing that the eyes of smuggled pelicans had been sewn shut with needle and thread to prevent resistance during transport.

Officials said around 16 migratory pelicans, which travel from colder regions to Sindh in search of food, were intercepted while being transported from Dadu to Karachi. The Sindh Wildlife Department took the birds into custody and registered a case against the suspects, who were later produced before a court.

During interrogation, it emerged that the accused had stitched the birds' eyes shut to keep them subdued. Investigators also found that the pelicans were being smuggled under the cover of livestock, particularly goats, in an attempt to evade law enforcement agencies.

The birds were shifted to a rehabilitation centre, where veterinarians carefully removed the stitches, conducted medical examinations, and placed them on a recovery diet consisting of fish.

Wildlife Department officials said the condition of the pelicans improved significantly after treatment.

The investigating officer informed the court that prolonged captivity, especially amid extreme heat, could endanger the birds' health and survival. He sought permission for their early release into their natural habitat.

The court approved the request under the Sindh Wildlife Rules 2022, directing that the pelicans be released after necessary care. It also ordered that all expenses incurred on their treatment and upkeep during official custody be recovered from the accused.