Punjab Wildlife Rangers seized a rare white tiger and an African lion cub in Faisalabad on Tuesday. The animals were kept illegally without the required legal permits. The operation followed a tip-off from local sources, prompting swift action by wildlife officials.
The white tiger was safely relocated to Lahore Safari Zoo, where it will receive proper care and protection. The lion cub was also moved to a secure wildlife facility. Legal proceedings have been launched under the Punjab Wildlife Act against the individuals involved in keeping these animals unlawfully.
Officials revealed that this crackdown has led to the recovery of over 20 big cats, including lions, tigers, and leopards, from various cities across Punjab. So far, five people have been arrested, five FIRs have been registered, and investigations are ongoing into two additional cases related to illegal wildlife possession.
Punjab’s government has recently introduced new rules to control private ownership of big cats. These include mandatory sterilization of lions, tigers, and leopards, as well as a ban on their commercial sale and purchase. The regulations aim to curb illegal wildlife trade and protect these endangered species.
Chief Wildlife Ranger Mubeen Elahi said this is the first time Punjab is enforcing such strict rules on private big cat ownership. Owners had a deadline of May 2 to declare their animals. Currently, 180 registered breeding farms have submitted declarations, and 40 of these farms have been officially verified by wildlife authorities.