Crackdown on Illegal Hunting and Wildlife Crimes Across the Province
Major Wildlife Rescue Operation in Punjab
Punjab Wildlife Rangers have intensified efforts against illegal hunting, wildlife trade, and unlawful possession, rescuing over 35,000 animals and birds across the province in the past year.
“All rescued animals receive immediate medical care before being released back into their natural habitats,” said Chief Wildlife Ranger Mubeen Elahi.
Fines and Legal Action
- Total fines collected: Rs766 million
- Cases registered: 3,749
- Cases decided by courts: 512 (fines Rs7.104 million)
- Cases settled via compounding: 3,007 (compensation Rs695.85 million)
- FIRs registered by police: 575
Offenders were penalized under strict wildlife protection laws, sending a strong message against illegal hunting.
Region-wise Cases
- Lahore: 257
- Gujranwala: 137
- Gujrat: 107
- Sahiwal: 113
- Salt Range, Chakwal (highest illegal hunting cases): 344
- Rawalpindi: 909
- Dera Ghazi Khan: 476
- Faisalabad: 334
- Bahawalpur: 390
- Sargodha: 518
- Multan: 164
Wildlife Rescued
Between March 2024 and September 30, 2025:
Animals Rescued: 694
- 23 bears
- 27 lions and tigers
- 219 spiny-tailed lizards
- 223 turtles
- 47 wild boars
- 75 monkeys
- 13 Indian pangolins
- 8 urials
- 17 deer
- 9 desert foxes
- 41 wild hares
- 14 mongooses
- 33 snakes (cobras & Russell’s vipers)
- 5 chitals
Birds Rescued: 34,484
- 27,666 sparrows
- 151 mynas
- 5 vultures
- 4 falcons
Most animals were freed from illegal traps, hunters’ nets, or unlawful captivity.
Conservation and Public Awareness
Chief Wildlife Ranger Mubeen Elahi emphasized:
- Rescued wildlife is given immediate medical attention.
- After recovery, animals are released into their natural habitats.
- Public awareness campaigns are being run to ensure long-term conservation of wildlife.
“Strict action against illegal hunting combined with public awareness is key to protecting Punjab’s wildlife,” Elahi added.