In a shocking incident on Lahore’s Defence Road, armed motorcyclists shot and killed several stray dogs in a private housing society during the night. CCTV footage clearly captured the unidentified men firing at the dogs before quickly escaping the scene, raising public outrage and questions about law enforcement.
This violent act occurred even though the Lahore High Court has strictly banned the killing of stray dogs. The court has instead ordered the Punjab government to enforce the TNVR (Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, Release) policy, which focuses on controlling the dog population through humane and scientific methods.
Local residents reported hearing gunfire and witnessing the attackers flee immediately afterward. They also claimed similar cases have happened before in other parts of the city, showing a pattern of vigilante-style killings that violate the court’s orders.
While citizens agree that stray dogs pose a threat, especially to children, many blame the government for failing to manage the issue effectively. Municipal authorities and the livestock department are criticised for not taking responsibility or launching large-scale TNVR operations as directed.
Civil society groups estimate there are around 30,000 to 35,000 stray dogs in Lahore. Most of these animals remain unvaccinated and unneutered, making the risk of dog bites and disease higher in densely populated areas.
Experts warn that without proper enforcement of the TNVR policy, such violent incidents will continue. They caution that public frustration may lead to more illegal actions, creating deeper legal and social problems for communities.