LAHORE: A crackdown by the Punjab Wildlife Department has led to the arrest of a suspect involved in the illicit trade of snow leopard skin in Lahore.
During a raid on a private residence, officials recovered the valuable skin and apprehended the accused. The skin is estimated to be worth around $20,000 (Rs5.6 million) on the international market.
According to wildlife officials, the suspect’s interrogation led to the identification of a larger criminal network involved in the illegal trade of endangered species.
The operation was carried out by the Punjab Wildlife Special Squad, which apprehended the suspect while recovering the valuable leopard skin.
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According to the spokesperson, the suspect was part of a group using social media platforms to sell rare and expensive wildlife skins, putting endangered species like snow leopards at greater risk.
In addition, further investigations are ongoing to arrest the remaining group members.
Punjab Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb said that there was a zero-tolerance policy on wildlife protection laws and such activities are putting endangered species more at risk in Pakistan
With only 250-420 snow leopards remaining in Pakistan, according to the World Population Review, conservation efforts are crucial. These majestic creatures inhabit the country’s northern mountainous regions, are solitary and elusive, and possess remarkable hunting prowess.
