The Punjab Wildlife Department has made a significant breakthrough in their fight against the illegal wildlife trade. During a recent search operation, officials recovered a snow leopard skin and arrested individuals involved in this illicit activity. The investigation has led to the identification of a group engaged in the illegal trade, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the network.
A spokesperson for the Punjab Wildlife Department revealed that the recovered snow leopard skin holds a market value of around $20,000 internationally. This group was reportedly using social media platforms to illegally sell the skins of rare and valuable wildlife species.
Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has strongly condemned these actions, highlighting the government’s zero-tolerance stance on wildlife protection violations. She warned that such illegal activities not only violate the law but also exacerbate the risks faced by endangered species in Pakistan.
Snow leopards, which are among the endangered wildlife in Pakistan, face a precarious situation. According to the World Population Review, their numbers in the country are estimated to range between 250 and 420 individuals. The ongoing illegal trade poses a severe threat to their survival.
The Punjab Wildlife Department remains committed to combating wildlife crime and protecting endangered species. Their recent success underscores the need for continued vigilance and enforcement to safeguard Pakistan’s precious wildlife from exploitation and extinction.
