Why is Pakistan treated like a chalet state by the Arabs? Defies imagination....what a country pakistan is!!

@Ishaq: I am disgusted to learn this!!

This is absolutely disgusting, and needs to stop. It's not just cultural imperialism now, it's active exploitation of resources and and an assault on universal values of decency. I'm ashamed to be a part of a people who are so blinded by bigotry and hate that they can't even realize what's happening to them. STOP THEM! Our environment is important! The eco-system is important! If we don't respect it, mother nature will punish us. And that's the kind of punishment we should be REALLY worried about.

Was USD 1.5Billion gift/ aid/ loan/ advance/ mortgage meant to do anything right or wrong within Pakistan by any Saudi? Why we forget that we are an independent nation strong enough to stand up with our own identity.

The so called "Gulf Royals" should have the sense to respect the laws and above all Pakistan should have the guts to call a spade a spade!

OMG

This is disgusting

These Arabs consider us as their slaves and therefore feel free to do whatever they want and whereever they want.

Privileges one has one when donates $1.5 B at the drop of ones hat.

Feel sorry for the houbaras to be born in pk

Anything is expected in Pakistan. It is a report and can be higher than this. He was a prince and he was allowed to poach 100 birds a day and in 21 days he poached 2100 birds. I don't know what role ornithologists play there. Any way Politicians are being treated in the same way there and they get money and petrol to run the nation. What does it mean for a politician if an endangered bird species will vanish from the earth forever. We have enough birds in Zoos, caught in Videography, on Photographs, in books , painted on canvas, walls etc., will show our children the same things instead of birds in wild. But they don't know an earthworm has a value as human beings have. They are as essential as we are. If once lost can't be found again. Then they will realize only money can't be eaten and petrol can't be drunk. The extinction of bird species is not going to affect Pakistan only but it will affect the whole world. It will affect East and west, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, America, China means it is like a chain. They work on different spheres in different countries. Let the time come and they will realize the importance of natural creatures. "Eiffel can't be an abode alone."

They didn't do it for free, they paid price for it..USD 1.5Billion... This family govt can sell whole nation for their gains and personal relations...

paying first installment of 1.5 Billion USD :P

this is very unfortunate, the government should stop these kinds of hunting trips completely, legal or illegal. The princes can hunt in their own countries, no need to hunt our endangered wildlife

Absolutely disgusting!

...and what is so shocking about this? Pakistan is a harlot to the Arabs...to be used, abused and left when they return back to their countries. This is the government's fault, and they should be held accountable.

What else you expect from these genetic throwbacks other than slaughtering these beautiful birds.

What a sad and bad news!!.

He is a prince ??.People should beware of him.

Present leaders cannot refuse any legal or illegal demands by Arab Princes...after all these Princes will provide them a safe place during Martial Law...

It is a shame for the government as well as the govt officers who were responsible to keep outsider within permit allowed number of hunting............................it is simply disgusting and shameful

Have money. Will travel. [ All cars, Land cruisers, camping equipment, will be left behind. As extra gifts for officials of the Forest and Wild life Dept.]

Do you think our govt. can hold someone accountable? 1.5B $ will go a long way....

Within the confines of civility i am finding it very hard to express my dismay at this . Any nation that has lost its self respect is truly on its way to self destruction . I wonder what Allama Iqbal would say to this .

Whoever has the environmental ministry ... please resign now

@Goga Nalaik: Good luck with the Arabs.Is this sultan going to eat all these birds.Pakistan government has lost its mind.This is nothing but a pure criminal act. Then again it's Pakistan......

Try and break any law in any part of Arab world. or try to get citizenship.

Dollar came down to 98 after all.

@Naseer Khna: You are preaching to an illiterate crowd. Barely cognizant of the word 'environmental disaster' or a species extinction. These Govt. officials entrusted with this sacred duty are the proverbial fox guarding the hen house.Their own evolution seems to have come to a screeching halt,..at the baboon stage.

Hi If this news is true then it is terrible act of cruelty. where were the forest guards when this was happening, this should not have been allowed to continue. people doing this hunting must be ashamed that there is so many muslims dying of hunger and poverty and these people are having fun and waisting money and resources on such activities.

Well, USD 1.5 Billion from a "friendly country" can buy a lot of birds, can't it. The corrupt, illetrate and uncivilized Saudies might have thought that the word "endangered" has the same meaning as the word "abundance". We can't expect anything good from our governments as it does not care not only about the masses but any other species that are living within the terrotires of this country. The word "integrity" has no meaning in this country. What a shame.

Why were these Desert Dwellers not stopped while hunting, as soon as they exceeded their allocated quote? Seems like Mr. Sharif has mortgaged the resources and dignity of the country with the US$ 1.5 Billion he took from them.

My heart goes out to the poor birds who fell prey to a ruthless person's whims. How can anyone be so irrationally cruel towards another living being - behaviour worse than any animal's

Where were the game wardens when the laws were being violated by this mighty prince? Can Pakistanis break the law in Saudi Arabia and get away with it? Shame on us for letting these guys get away with it!

At least leave the birds alone.

Even these respected v vips can stay for long in balochistan, who says that this province is no go area ?

Why must the people be allowed to carnage the wild life? Have they not brought enough sufferings for humans? The UNO must act decisively.

Rex Minor

Please allow me to explain. When my cousins and I shelled out a billion dollars, nobody told us we would still be criticised. And in any case, how can the bustards be endangered if there were over 2,000 of them around? Seriously brothers, forget about the birds and focus on saving people's lives.

It is very depressing and sad to read that the Govt gives licenses to shoot and kill birds just like that. That too endangered?!

If this had happened in India, I swear, the Chief Minister of that State, along with all the officers concerned with the concerned Dept. would have resigned and many would be behind bars.

The Western media is constantly missing on this story. Only they can shame these royals world wide. In the meantime, Suo Moto notice by the Chief Justice or the $1.5 billion Saudi donation just too heavy?

Unfortunately this country has been sold to the lowest bidder quite some time ago. We, the unfortunate citizens, and bustards, are left to toil and cope with their plunder.

Dr Asad R Rahmani, Director of Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), an ornithologist a scientist, turned into activist after seeing the scenario of bustards of India and Pakistan. Only a handful houbara and great Indian bustards are left in India and Pakistan. how could we allow to get these bustards to extinction for few dollars? Please save them for the future of our children..

First of all, let me thank the Forest Officer - at least there is one who has conscious. And now let me shed tears - what a horrible government.

@Naseer Khna: ".....allow the holders to hunt up to100 houbara bustards in 10 days...", not 100 birds a day for 21days!

Shameful!

Frankly India has been more diligent in species protection and has even initiated proceedings against known people like Salman Khan and Saif Ali Khan for hunting protected species.

Maybe Pakistan can learn this from India. This is easier as there is no politics in this. In fact punishing one Saudi Royal will send a message for ever.

@Ishaq:

Saudi princess is a guest, and a fellow Muslim in Pakistan which received 1.5 Billion dollars as a gift. Can you afford not to be nice?

You talk of Balochistan desert -Arab Sheikhs can hunt in the heart of Quetta if there are houbara bustard. to be found

Come on my fellow citizens, don't sound so alarming after all these Royals sheltered our royalty, the Sharifs of Raiwind for 8 years.

This tells you how humane our Arab (so called Muslim brothers) is. Shame on Pakistan Government.

SHAME on the country. Arabs still rule there.

Pointing fingers at others is an exercise in futility. The truth is that whatever is done by others to this benighted nation is because we allow them to do it.

I don't know if Pakistani people are courageous enough to gather and protest in that Safari. At least government would know that ordinary people of Pakistan care for these birds and environment. I don't think writing comments here would change anything as these officials don't seem to have time to read all these articles.

Saudis are a stain on Pakistan. They pay $1.5 billion to use and abuse this country and its national resources as they please. It's political prostitution.

well forget the prince, where is the sumo-to against the ones involved from our side.

Part of $1.5 billion charity.

Since Saudis are Pakistan's religious and cultural masters and also sugar daddies so naturally they think they can get away with anything. Government should bring this prince to justice. It's humiliating.

@KKRoberts: I am sure the ordinary Saudis know that already. What a country! They still have an actual medieval monarchy going on there.

Pakistan and Pakistanis are disgraced and degraded in Arab countries and at home. How much money the rulers want from Arabs, they have looted enough, now they want to rob the Pakistanis of their left over dignity and honor.

@Goga Nalaik: they dont consider us slaves, rather we have volunteered ourselves as slaves to them, courtesy of petro dollars and their version of religion of peace and tranquility.

Our 'Saudi Brothers and lords' have hurt Pakistan more people realize. We blame everyone in the world for the chaos that Pakistan is today but the Saudi's. The truth of the matter is that if it wasn't for the Saudi's and their arrogant, imperialistic, flawed support and policies, Pakistan and for that matter the world would have been a much better place to live in. No country has hurt Islam and Muslim brotherhood more than the nation of Saud.

@sanjay mittal: From your lips to God ears my friend, but sadly punishing an International law breaker Saudi royal is considered sacrilegious in Pakistan.

Just sickening.

Here on this forum, we can see a lot of educated people complaining about conservation or lack thereof. But how many pakistanis on the street a) will ever criticise the Saudis? b) give a dman about birds when their lives are often in danger c) ever feel sorry for animals and birds when they treat them badly anyway.

Some furor here does not translate into outrage of the people. Otherwise such acts would not have been repeated periodically. The politicians know that people dont give a damn, and that money talks.

Pakistanis would give anything to anybody for money. Can you think what that means? It is again that Wadera culture, which taught us to be impressed with money so much that we are ready to do anything for its possessor.

Being a Pakistani, I feel that Pakistan has been raped. Thank you, DAWN for this report. This is the most humiliating news I have red in years. Only God knows what " else " went in those wks. The worst thing we can do as a nation to do nothing. Write a letter to you senator or MP. Stop the foreign invaders.

He has taken advantage of our hospitality, which should not be allowed, but then again who are we to question, we have sold ourselves as slaves to them. We are a nation of slaves without any rights whatsoever.

A senator in US said that " For the money Pakistan will sell their mothers" after reading this makes you wonder.

So sad that the Saudi royals have no respect for life, coming from a nation which is home to the holiest sites in Islam. The prophet (SAW) would never have condoned such cruelty, and neither does the Quran. Every living thing is to be treasured and respected .. and helpless creatures more so.

When will this age-old friendship stop being taken advantage of by Arab royals? The entire episode is shameful.

This is Shameful. What kind of a sick individual would do this? 2100 kills in 21 days? This guy deserves to be thrown in a Pakistani Prison. Do Saudis have nothing better to do? They come to Pakistan killing protected animals and taking our kids away to starve them and turn them into camel jockeys.

The Arab 'royals'want to make this poor bird extinct before the royals themselves become extinct.

How many birds the voracious royal; appetite needs to consume before going to bed. 2100?

And whose fault is that? Ours ! We as a nation have failed we cannot protect our beings because our greed for money will never even reduce let alone finish

Firstly, one should not blame ALL arabs for a few person's acts. Secondly, Pakistan has already sold its soul numerous times in the past to many countries. Pay us and do whatever you feel like in our country and no law shall be implied upon you. Shame on our government for letting this happen. We walk with shame amongst the international community and the whole world laughs at us. Alas, we are the ones who vote these people in office.

@Ishaq:

Because Pakistan is ruled by Corrupt and Dishonest.

I don't understand that Who wants to increase and protect these precious breeds in Pakistan at homes and farmhouses they face many rules and regulations by the so called govt. guys in shape of license, fees, wildlife protection act blah blah blah.. and who kills them for nothing they are free, very strange.

This country will sell everything, including its scarce natural resources to the highest bidder. These is no end to the shamelessness here.

MASHALLAH

Completely biased. Can someone explain how can some one hunt 90 birds a day (let's say hunting for 10 hours, that is 9 per hour or 1 every 7 minutes ) !! And this guy was there counting all along !! Don't ridicule the only true friend we have !!

So? Zardari did a similar thing when he staged his campaign on protected area. We can't blame foreigners when we ourselves (note the "saheb zadehs") don't respect our laws. The question is, if this is an internationally protected area, why was the permit issued in the first place?

Beggers have no choice , Pakistan would disappear from the face of the earth if USA and Saudi Arabia were to stop their hand out to Pakistan, they have to please their masters.

The Saudis paid a billion for this, remember? Can't cry now...

What do you expect when your so called 'leaders' sell you out?

@Ishaq: This is what happens when you elect a Prime Minister who is indebted to a foreign power or potentate ! Develop self-respect like a free nation and the world will not treat you like a chalet!

Dear Friends, It is amazing, that so many people wrote their concern, about the Bustard Hunting News, Expressing their anger against the Saudi Prince, & Politician, as well as the Game Dept. But sadly to say, The houbara Bustard is neither an Endangered Specie nor Threatened. The Population is quite healthy, Houbara Bustard are migratory bird, from Central Asia, & Russia, where these birds are protected as well. The same Saudi Prince who are hunting these Bustard Spent Million of dollars for the conservation and Breading program all over the world. However, Excessive hunting of any game or bird should never be permitted, The Saudis Prince are invited guest, it is the responsibility of the host Government with the Coordination of the Local Game Dept. to make sure that no game violation or over hunting is taken place.

Beggars can't be choosers!

Kudos to Dawn for publishing the news here and for NOT covering up the whole news! In the same regard, I would happy to see my comment posted without selectively blocking in the name of moderation.

Pakistan can call KSA, PRC and any other country as 'All Weather Friend(s)'.. But friends won't be friends forever w/o any benefit(s). Saudi kings don't have an iota of concern about killing endangered species. They are the same NOMADS, even today.

@Goga Nalaik: Why does the reality hurt ?

@KKRoberts: Do not demonise the species (princes), I would take a British Prince any day compared to this lot.

@Dr. Sohaib Rana: Not true. The people ,especially all the disgusted in our country will forget it, by the time the elections come.

This is very embarrassing situation for all Pakistani's that some person came from abroad, bride people and do whatever he can do. I have some kind of believe in it as American said about Pakistani's, "This is nation who can sell her mom for dollars. very disappointing and disrespectful society.

@Usman Ansari: Very well said. You exactly sound my feelings about these shameless creatures who have ever been a disgrace to all humanity

@Prince Fahd: You are a REAL Prince. You told us Loud and Clear. Thanks Master. We will do anything to make you happy, ($1.5 bil) Thank you! thank you!! and thank you!!!

@sabeeh omer:

"Gulf Royals should have the sense to respect the laws"

You can't have laws in a country where a vote sells for $5 and an ex-chief justice owns a construction empire.

What do you expect from PML-N. govt. After all, they lead it by killing white tiger during their election run. Truly disgusting and shameful acts. Sadness is that people have no way of protesting this criminal act.
Mian Saheb kuch khofe khuda...Insaano pe nahi to be zubaan jaanwaro per hi rehem khaae.

This poor fellow, Divisional Forest Officer, will be fired soon or might have been fired already. This is how it goes in our beloved land.

Ofcourse its a criminality but also consider the costs and efforts made by security and other agencies to accomodate this so called cruel prince. Despite our corrupt rulers, these arabs themselves also need to grow up and get some education of modern ages. Bill gates shoe is more expensive than this prince's whole wealth but he would never have done this.

Seems like Saudi royal family is above all laws, ethics and care of any kind whatsoever. Also seems like they are above all accountability. Neither Govt nor civil society will raise this at any forum and no action will be taken because Saudi a Royals are above everything

At least he rested for 2 days and saved 200 birds based on his average day killings.

I don't know why Pakistanis think they are close to Arabs.. Even there DNA's won't match..

When we are kids we are told to stand on our own feet and do something..

I guess Pak needs to stand on its own feet and not borrow the clutches from America or Arabia..

@GA: Great question !

@Shahpur:The Arabs are ridiculed and mocked as the most backward people in the world - especially Western countries. It must feel good for them to know they are respected in Pakistan at least. In all fairness, this hunting of bustards in Pakistan has been going on for decades- nothing new.

Because 'prince' saved the neck of Sharif from Musharaff ?

I think a lot of unnecessary fuss is being created. The Saudi Prince is our guest, and frankly I feel ashamed at the reaction being shown. In our culture, we honour our guests and if they wish to hunt birds, so be it. Remember Hatim Tai ?

How can one expect the government to protect its Wildlife when it can't even protect its own people from getting hunted everyday. This is a failed country that keeps begging money from other countries so they can walk all over Pakistan anytime they want to.

$1.5 bln for 2100. We owe them nothing now. Our nature friends hubaras lost their lives to pay kingdom debt.

this is sick.

@Goga Nalaik: Islam does not condone "slavery". In fact slaves have all the rights enjoined to them by the Hadith. They can buy their freedom from their masters and be treated with respect like human beings.

In case of Pakistan the cost of freedom is at least $1.5B dollars. If we can arrange for this, then we start buying our freedom.

When all the birds become extint these Saudi Arab prince will hunt the Pakistanis....., such a shame, What sort of country??

India should take Pakistan to the UN for this. Or give Pakistan 1.5 billion and solve all the problems.

"Nawaz is our man in Pakistan" said, Jalal, a Saudi Prince. Its on record. Thanks god he didn't kill 1977 persons.

This has been happening for many years.They come ,hunt houbara and go back as if it is their Land.Why are they allowed to do so? Where is our self respect as a nation

The ruling class does not respect any national law. Now they are inviting cohorts from the Middle East to join then in flouting national law.

Musharraf went even further and invited the Americans to kill Pakistanis as well (remember Raymond Davis).

At least we should be grateful to the Arabs that they are killing only "protected bird species"

@Wajahat Hussain: But this is bravery Wajahat sahib! They go in their royal grandeur with so many people with them and sophisticated guns and kill those small birds so easy. Are the princes not so brave! (Alhamdulillah!)

I paid so much money and tips to your begger type workers which are having hard time giving proper bread to their children and you complain about birds...unbelieavable

@Rao: Term "law" means it applies equally on everyone. But then again, who cares about Pakistan.

This one incident confirms that our government is shameless with no self respect and unwilling to protect Pakistan. A sincere apology is in order from the Saudi ambassador to the people of Pakistan with a commitment that it will never happen again. Another apology is due from the PM as well as from the CM of Baluchistan to the nation

@Ishaq: Because they give $$$$ to your county.

Some saudi prince comes to your land and kills endanged birds, after throwing some petrodollars at you. And the americans throw some aid your way, and violate your sovereignty practically every day..

What kind of a proud nation/ society allows this? I mean, really..

Someone please dump these royal Arabs down the drain.

@Ishaq: Correction: Only by wealthy royalty from the Arab gulf states who can afford to bribe government officials to look the other way. If all those people are held accountable, I guarantee you things like this will never happen again.

It is indeed a sorry state of affairs, when Pakistan is willing sacrifice it's precious wildlife species for these degenerate Saudi royals. Instead of taking care of our fauna, we are giving away for some handouts(dollars), our assets, which if once gone will take years and years of efforts to get back.

@Ishaq: According to your history books, wasn't Pakistan created when an Arab Mohammed Bin Qasim invaded Sindh? The tradition continues.

I always respected the Suadis for their ability to be felxible and yet, modern. Maybe not so much on their social stance; and they are changing. BUT! I always thought the Saudis had reverence and respect for nature. Hunting is one thing; it is a past time of all humans. This is plain and simply disgusting. I say this as an individual whom is an avid hunter, and TAKES PRIDE IN USING EVERY PART OF THE ANIMAL I CULL.

C'mon, Saudis. you know better than this.

@Faraz: If some body else done the same to humans ?

If some other superior species does to humans , particularly for royals

@deep: He will

@Prince Fahd:

Smallest actions should be undertaken with the big picture in mind.There were thousands of tigers,now very few left.Because of a few people of your mindset.

I urge you to think, and study nature.Quran say,!

All the answers are on this earth.

I feel terribly worried for the poor forest warden who wrote this report - hope he does not face any repercussions .

@Prince Fahd:

What a sick comment.

The sorry thing is that we don't get anything in return. This 1.5 billion has nothing to do with this slaughter which has been going on since Ayub's time. An ordinary Pakistani is not allowed to hunt even one bird. This is a protected species whic comes from central asian republic to winter on this wretched land . Why blame others when we are ready to sell our soul for visa or dollars or just plain good will.

@Agha Ata: You are damn wrong. We the Pakistanis will not give any thing as far as our dignity is concerned. These people are not Pakistani by definition. My father and his cousins were not like these people. They gave up every thing for this country when migrated to Pakistan. My father was a Pakistani spy and almost gave his life for very little salary. I never heard him complaining. No body and I mean, no body could have bought his principles and love for Pakistan. Shame on you.

2100 birds in 21 days, almost 100 birds a day and that is mostly in the protected areas and reserves. It summarizes two things first it tell something about the personality of that person who killed 2100 birds just for mostly enjoyment. That number certainly will have an impact on the houbara habitat in that region. Second it shows the weakness on behalf of administration which has allowed it to happen even in the protected areas. Both acts i.e. killing and allowing it to happen are appauling.

Well! Didnt they just give Pakistan billions of Rs ? They earned the right to kill , poach or whatever they want! Nawaz is probably feasting on those birds with his Arab peeps in the comfort of his palace !

@Mamoo jan: Its birds today . ..humans tomorrow.

Money talks

This is another slap on our corrupted Fed Govt. AKA Nawaz Shariff (nothing shariif about this guy). It's time to call PETA for action and put this freaking prince to jail... shame on you Nawaz Shariff.

I don't understand why pakistanis are outraged. The Prince can easily setup a Biological Lab to create more of this species. He has the money to arrange for this hunting excursion. Not sure if the Bird was eaten by locals for Dinner/Lunch as Kebab.

The prince gave lot of money to Pakistan. He is well within his rights to shoot a few birds. Nothing outrageous here and undue coverage being given.

Why are we upset? Beggers cannot be choosers. If we want integrity and self-respect, we need to stop asking others for money

@Syed Husain: Same thing would have happened to the game wardens. Poor wardens! what could they do? $1.5 Billion gets permits to do a lot of things in Pakistan. Wonder if there is reciprocity for the Sharifs.

Keep in mind folks, that houbara are being bred in captivity and released, at a tremendous cost, to ensure their long term survival, and to boost the population to a huntable level every year. Also these houbara are not being hunted with guns!
It amazes me how much people STILL respond emotionally to a single article on the internet, without using that very same internet to fact check. Go ahead and type in captive breeding of houbara in Google, you will find they release 1000s a year!

120 flights a day, man I wish I was there to see that!

Where is Pakistan's self respect? Don't let the Arabs rule your beautiful country. They are not your ancestors, they don't want to know you. Your best bet would be not accepting that tainted money. That money only goes to the politicians anyway. Get a life and say "No" to Arabs. They would not dare to pull this stunt in any other country of this world, so why make Pakistan an easy prey?

Would anyone be willing to consider a BOYCOTT of the Arab lands represented by such 'prices' and 'families', \the 'keepers of the Holy places'? Would a new 'tribal war' be feasible to bring the country into the hands of true god-fearing leaders. Everyone who goes to Haj or Umra contributes about USD4-20K to this travesty of a 'government'; $15-20Billion .. NOT a HUGE amount, but could put a dent in their system.

$1.5 B slaves paying back their masters. Why can't the World Wildlife Fund sue the people in question for significantly huge amount in International courts?

What a shame on our government that they not only are selling the "Khudi" to the foreign governments, they don't have to courage to question them about breaking the rules of the land. Pakistani officials involved in this should ask this question," would Saudi Arabia allow the Pakistani or any foreign national to break rules in their country?" This is not new for the Pakistani government to allow such things to happen. During the summer of 2013, they also allowed hunting of endangered animals to the "Royals" of the Gulf states. Pakistan can never progress until the people of Pakistan believe in Allah and stop begging from other nations.

They could have used mechanically launched targets to show off their shooting skills.

Truely sad.

shame shame shame

"... internationally protected .." Are they listed under CITES? The prince should be given a princely treatment behind bars. Also party to the crime were the Pakistan Forest and Wildlife officials who should bear the full brunt of the law. This massacre is unacceptable.

The Houbara Bustard is part of a National treasure of Pakistan and in that spirit Arabs with their falcons and hawks must respect the wildlife of the country. The Arab prince must have a big appetite; I mean how can his entourage and him possibly eat 2100 large birds. I doubt that the meat is processed and frozen for consumption later on. Traditionally the tribes men would use a "langar" (stone and string) to bring these birds down as they flew over the north western region of Pakistan. The scandal of camel boys from Pakistan has not been enough. Someone ought to make a short documentary and publicize this senseless massacre of wild life in Pakistan......

@someone:

They all will then be found on the list of "Missing Persons", this is one of the strategy introduced by Muslim, Pakistani Politicians to counter opponents from within.

@Naseer Khna: "hunt up to 100 houbara bustards in 10 days in the area allocated"

100 in 10 days, not 100 per day.

Each responsible for this heinous act including the so-called prince has broken a law & they should all be punished. Put them in Jail & make sure that this does not happen ever again.

This is a copy of the message sent to the Saudi Embassy in Islamabad (pkemb@mofa.gov.sa). I would request other readers to send similar respectful messages so that future incidents like this can be avoided.

Dear Sir/Madam

I would like to respectfully protest the recent illegal hunting of more than 2100 houbara bustards by a Saudi citizen in Baluchistan. The houbara bustard is an endangered species and its hunting is banned internationally. The Government of Pakistan keeping in mind the brotherly relations between the two countries had issued a permit to the Saudi citizen for the hunting of 100 birds only. However, this permit was not respected and more than 2,100 of these endangered birds lost their lives in just over three weeks.

I would like to request you to ask Saudi citizens to avoid engaging in the hunting of endangered animals and birds in Pakistan altogether and if they do participate in any hunting they should respect the limitations of the permits issued to them.

Thank You

A Concerned Pakistani Citizen

These so called royals have no shame, they still are in an era when India was ruled by British and their royals or vips would come to India hunt lions cheetas and elephants and other rare animals, but ofcourse then they were the rulers and they cosidered their rights.But now because we have this inferiority comlex for anyone royal or feel, beacause of their ricness, we should bend to their wishes even if its illigal for the locals. Its a shame and those who authorize such events should be persecuted and held responsible. Its so barberic that we as Pakistanis should protest and stop such events in the future.

This is the worst barbarism, this people are worst than poachers , Poacher are driven by the poverty, Where these people are hunting for the pleasure.

There are no words to which are fit to write for such an shameful act on the the part of Pakistan Ruling Party and the Royals. This is only done when you sell yourself motherland and have no morals at all. Totally Disgusting

shame on us

Disgusting Ruling Party. Any Morals or respect , Why should you have that, You are there to sell your motherland at any cost. What a Shame for Pakistani Goverment and THE ROYALS. Anything worse than this you do?

Everyone please send an email of complaint to the Saudi Embassy in Islamabad.

Pakistan continues on a self destrcution mode leaving no ray of hope from any angle. Damn sad.

If they are funding to preserve them birds, they have every right to slaughter them as per their wishes. You ppl should be glad , they only have wished for birds , not humans. That would have been also taken care of keeping the 5 Bil USD notion intact. U know , lil model village with these beghairat pakis running around , Bang bang !!Missing persons u see. That time aint far, don't forget these ass worshippers are pretty sadistic if you know what I mean .

@sanjay mittal: India does not need $1.5 billion but Pakistan does, and above all Sharif family needs good relations with Saudis. I dare if Pakistani govt. even say a word to members of royal family let alone prosecuting anyone.

Why are the Royal families of Arabia and Pakistan being blamed unfairly, when the guilt lies with bustards themselves for being born in Pakistan, the land of the pure. The dirty animals should not complain.

I don't know why Pakistani's are so upset with this incident. Have you forgotten Ummah. Also many of you consider yourself of Arab origin. So don't waste you time in criticizing Arab's instead follow them and become a true Arab.

It is like selling our land or womanfolk.Why are we so indifferent to our national pride and sovereignty ? The government in general and the so called friends of the saudi royalty should stop selling the nation's pride.

very very sad , i don't understand why Pakistanis brother less careful for eco system and poor animals , some time i read a politician hunted 50 critically endangered black deer , some time ago may be 150 or 100 years ago we have Asiatic lion here in Pakistan but now it is only in india ................. we are now destroying Indus dolphins , we almost finished Gharial population........... in the end what i say only this that Pakistanis are enemy of their own homeland.............

why don't the mentioned travel to Africa and hunt lions to prove their manhood? Killing birds for fun sounds shameful.

How come Arabs always bully pakistan, Bangladesh is also a Muslim country, Arab govt are always nice toto Bangladeshi govt and always be talking about how Arab states need to closer ties with bangladesh

Learn something from your neighbors, Indian and be govt always strict to Arab ruler that's why they Arab states never raise voices against us, but they treat Pakistan like their backyard

@Prince Fahd: Allow me to explain, ruthless killing of the innocent cannot be excused and should not be condoned; regardless of how much money you've bribed someone with and the population size of whatever you're killing (after all, humans outnumber everything else but killing you would still be a crime, unfortunately).

Please brother, grow a heart and a functional brain, and realise the gravity of your heinous action.

If everyone who is writing here were to convey their feelings to the Saudi Embassy in Islamabad by email then maybe these incidents would not take place in the future. Please do something!

The Chinese and Arab Royals undoubtedly consider Pakistan as one of its province and subject state respectively. Pakistan under much obligation from both as well as to continue friendship had been gifting its land, ports and allowing poaching of protected birds even though the same is considered illegal internationally.

I am from Australia and I am very sad to see the sad affairs of a country which has a lot of potential. This story is just one example of this country allowing others to dictate its people.

I am amazed people are still moaning about this. Get over it. The citizens of Pakistan must realize what their country is for. TO BE ABUSED by other rich people from foreign countries. And obviously by some of our own like Shareefs, Zardaris and Chaudharis.... When will we realize we bear no value at alllll...... The sooner we realize this the better....

It's a shame hear such distressing news, but one can't just blame the Arabs or the politicians. It is all our responsibility to take care of these animals and the environment. I know for a fact that there are plenty of Pakistanis who go hunting all year long. Just a few months ago, a group hunted about 22 large animals in Baluchistan.

I remember a couple building a couple of luxury huts in northern area, on a place where the birds and wolfs roamed. The birds and the other animals disappeared and the once beautiful spot was laid bare, full of trash, and smell of sewerage.

What a beautiful bird, what an ugly prince.

@Aussie: Lolz... well said...!

@Ali S: Well said.... excellent choice of words! Apt for the act.

@Nadeem Khan: Nadeem, you have put a logical perspective. I think what the readers are expressing is the blatant acceptance of Saudi aid. Every aid has a reason- Saudi aid to Pakistan has none. Also, most in the country feel that everyone is running over them- Saudi/US no exception. The Saudis are no well wishers of Pakistan than US. Common Pakistanis do not approve of the way Saudis treat Pakistanis. This is not a relationship of mutual respect. Saudis have kept Pakistan to produce bombs which they can use when a need arises, as a buffer for all their nonsense in Middle East power struggle. Pakistanis from Karachi to Lahore to Ismbd are all feeling the same- the nation has stooped before Saudis. And they do not like that a bit.

Are we really an independent nation?

How can one expect the government to protect the wildlife when its own people are getting hunted everyday like savages? They gave Pakistan 1.5b for nothing and on top of that Pakistan keeps begging other countries for more and more so they are prone to be walked all over by these countries. There is only one solution to end this all. We people of our Nation all should Unite and kick out all the corrupted people leading our country. Until then these magnificent birds will be continued to be hunted down and so will our people. Our nation is already sold its high time we do something about it.

bustards

not a bad score......... hats off to royal prince. please come again with an other installment of 1.5 billion dollar as soon as possible.

these birds belong to Baluchistan not Pakistan. Pakistan taking money from Arabs and let them for hunts in balochistan . Baluchistan not part of Pakistan and Pakistan exploiting Baluchistan. the people of baloch never consider themselves as pakistani governement of pakistn knows that one day balochs get their freedom.and this is reason that pakistan doing that.

Wait...the sold souls are going to sell a lot more!

@Ishaq: We, the people, MUST change!

@sabeeh omer: Innocence!

Government of Pakistan running by selfish and self-centered people has no values for ones' life. Poor birds - wish they wouldn't have born in Pakistan. Who says we are independent country???

Once the Pakistani wildlife is finished, it will be the turn of Pakistani humans.

OMG. The dreaded Kaliphate is back.

You are free to sell your nation, free to destroy temples, mosque, free to kill anyone you wish in the name of religion, we are starting a day where all the fundamentalist will have their day to impose their version of Islam, cast religion and creed will be defined by state and who is going to be Muslim and who is not

This how Jinna's speech is interpreted today

Pakistani should demand on shooting the camels that roam the deserts of Arab lands. Pathetic are our leaders.

Why there is death need to the Prince to hunt such a big number of birds?

How can the government be so very insensitive to its own flora and fauna. One cannot over rule your own rules and regulation to accomodate such careless guest. What has been done is an irreversible collateral damage that can never be recovered.

Very sad :(

Did you think the Saudis gave you $1.5 Billion because they love you? Think again!!! They bought you. It is now your turn to dance to the Saudi tune. Just one question? Have the Arabs ever given any thing to any one, in their entire history, for altruistic reasons?

I do not understand what the fuss is about? We should focus our anger on drone attacks and the plight of the Palestinians. So what if our Muslim brothers kill a couple of thousand ridiculous birds, which are most likely not even Muslim.

The Prince broke the law. Why has he not been arrested and charged?

@Usman Ansari: Accountable for what? following the practice of your ancestors of decades?

What does Islam have to say to his excessive and immoderate action? Is this the role-model he is setting for other Muslims to follow?

Please rise up and make your voice heard. This is your land and these are your natural resources, please respect mother nature and respect your wild life. Being an Indian, these things happen illegally in India also but people and officials here are taking these violations seriously. Lets make world a better place for wild life. You respect the nature and it will be kind to you. God Bless

@Anwer: Can this issue be raised in the National Assembly for debate?

Lets not over react guys. Let the Forest Officer and the concerned department deal with this if any laws are broken, just like say the Mayor of Chichawatni would deal with such issues.

I know what tomorrow's news item will be: "The federal govt has issued a press release stating that a report issued in Dawn is based on incorrect information. The Saudi Prince only hunted a total of 21 birds and none of them in the protected areas. The forest officer responsible for this report has been called to Islamabad for an inquiry."

And Pakistanis are always so keen to show that they are related these barbaraians.The Arabs are,and have always been,uncivilised.

@Goga Nalaik: And on our part we ourselves feel pleased, rather pride, in getting treated as slaves. So, who is to be considered more at fault ? The Arabs or we ? Our rulers say they have the welfare of our workers in heart and thus they can not refuse the wishes of friendly countries to allow to kill the endangered species. As if the workers will be kicked out if not allowed to hunt. Any logic ??

@Salman: Will the Saudi ambassador in Pakistan ever care to respond to the email and make it public for all readers to see the reply ?? Email or no email, he must have read the readers comments and so must respond to the criticism by issuing a public statement. Will he do it ?

Now that its gone public and is creating a stir...wonder what will be the fate of the poor officer who compiled this report?

@Ram: WE are happy in your independent state we are loving our way of life Muslim culture yes we muslim have strong believes and batter way of life. But confused and illiterate people like you from other religions try to defame the image of Muslims buy using lies and spending money on supporting bad people in our country to give a bad image to world. BUT ISLAM IS EVERLASTING AND GOOD MUSLIMS WOULD STAND TILL THE LAST.

....yes Mr PM Nazwaz Sharif and what have you to say on this?.........Money is not everything! The country is leaderless, all busy making money.

No one and nothing is safe in Pakistan. Saudi backed terrorists are culling the population and so called Saudi princes its wildlife.

No surprises for guessing that their slave Nawaz Shariff will not say or do anything.

@Ishaq: Saudis just donated 1.5 billion RS to Pakistan and now they have bought a right to hunt in your sanctuaries! Royally uncivilized! Where were the Taliban "warriors" and "proud Nationalists"? You see a Saudi uncivilized "royal" and you knees buckle! Those birds may be on your territory, buit they belong to the WORLD!

@Ishaq: "Chattel state" is Right! Think 1.5 biilion Rs! Saudis give to money, Madressas, and tell you your religion and its interpretation! Chattel state?

@Voltore: ROYAL DECADENCE!

The Saudis are a throwback to the stone age and the only reason anyone even bothers to put up with them is because of oil and the money that comes with it. Once the oil is gone in a few decades, they will be relegated to the stone age which iswhere they belong.

@Ishaq . you can not blame the arabs. Thanks to Arabs your country is surviving, these arabian countries are giving billion of dollars every yearto your country as help for which Pakistani people should thank the Arabic countries. The problem why so many people in Pakistan complain is that this help goes directly in the pockets of politicians and for this you can not blame the Arabs. Stop blaming Arabs and look at your shameless politicians.

After all they have to get something in exchange of the dollars the have just given to our country, their game ground.

I always feel saddened by such news which again reiterates that pakistan will be servant to these big powers .Can it not show this magnamality to its own citizens and India for friendship,,,,,,,,,,,all the problems of pakistan and sub continent would be solved.

What do they do with these birds?

@Amir Yes, brother it's a matter of rational behavior vs animal behavior of human being. And again it depends on your level of education, culture, civilization and more over sense of humanity and owning. Unfortunately this gentleman(?) has inherited nothing but brutality, autocracy, and barbarism. Shame!

@vk amani Are you sure, anymore?

The meat of Houbara bird is aphrodisiac or in simple words is considered the earliest known form of Viagra !! One to three birds will be enough for an average male (without any medical complications) to become extremely active sexually. If we compare the potency of Houbara to Viagra, I would easily say hundred dollars to one dollar.

Few of the Gulf Sheikhs are also putting in breeding program for houbaras and releasing them in the wild with GPS tracking so the hunt and breeding goes hand in hand.....birds are released in winter and they come back to Pakistan in the next season to get hunted :)

that makes pakistan an autocractic state, they are giving permits to those bastards, just to please them ?.

Basic tenets of Islam are very good. However, it has become an instrument of Arab imperialism. A discourse between God and a person is a personal matter to be conducted in a manner suited to the person. However, requirement of language and direction of prayer is a mean of subjugating follower of Islamic faith to Arabs.. This is a genesis of second rate treatment of rest of the Islamic world by Arabs. They also have wealth to enforce it. This killing of endangered birds in Pakistan is a symptom of subjugation of Pakistan. Pakistan has let it happen by denying their glorious heritage. Accepting Islamic philosophy is one thing, accepting Arab culture/wealth is demeaning.

Awesome. So what if some poor birds are driven to extinction by the blood lust of a prince, at least the establishment gets billions. This unfortunate land with so much potential is seeing so much pain every day by mindless loss of human lives, why care about some 2100 birds..

@sabeeh omer This is totally our weakness :( They have nothing to do with our laws if federal government allows them to do so.

Thanks God they had not asked for humans prey otherwise our government will not hesitate to fulfill their demand

@Jafar They use falcons. and it is not done by one person. have you ever seen their convoy?. it consists of a few tankers , many jeeps and hundreds of falcons.

@Nadeem Khan you are ignorant. You can hardly find a bustard in sindh . This slaughter has been going on for 20 years. A few years ago they were even found under the Kotri barrage of all places.