RAWALPINDI: The Punjab Wildlife Department on Monday seized a lion from a vehicle parked near Chak Beli Road in Rawalpindi, after the owner failed to show a valid license.
According to officials, the lion was recovered from a vehicle on GT Road. It was being transported for a circus performance at a local mela.
The lion’s owner, identified as Fakhar Abbas, could not provide the required wildlife license, leading to legal action. The department imposed a fine of Rs60,000 on the owner for illegally keeping a dangerous animal.
The lion has been shifted to a safe location, officials said, adding that keeping wild animals without a permit is strictly banned across Punjab.
Eighteen lions kept illegally as pets have been seized from various areas in Punjab region during a targeted operation.
The extensive crackdown has begun after a lion escaped from a house in Lahore and attacked a woman and two children last month.
The Wildlife Department stressed that action will continue against individuals who violate animal safety laws.
