Punjab government has initiated action against citizens keeping lions at home without licenses following a horrifying incident in Lahore’s Johar Town, where a pet lion attacked a family at a private farmhouse, leaving three people including two children seriously injured.
According to details, a major crackdown has begun across Punjab against individuals illegally keeping lions. 13 lions have been seized following raids at 22 locations throughout the province, leading to the arrest of five individuals.
In Lahore, the Wildlife Department recovered four lions and arrested four individuals. One premises was sealed, and three cases have been registered.
Similarly, in Gujranwala, four lions were seized, and one FIR is being registered. In Faisalabad, two lions were taken into custody, one premises was sealed, and one case is under process.
In Multan, three lions have so far been recovered, one individual has been arrested, and two FIRs have been registered.
The Wildlife Department has said that the illegal trade of wild animals is intolerable and there will be no compromise on public safety. Keeping lions illegally is not only a crime but also a threat to society. Wildlife laws will be strictly enforced, and no one is above the law.
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said that under the zero-tolerance policy, indiscriminate action will continue across Punjab. She appealed to the public to report illegal lion ownership by calling 1107 so timely action can be taken.
