SARGODHA: A combing operation is currently underway across Punjab to combat illegal hunting.

Wildlife Assistant Director Arooj Zaheer said on Wednesday that during this operation, protected wild animals and birds have been recovered from various areas and released into the open air. Shopkeepers found in possession of these animals have been punished and fined heavily.

He said two bears were rescued from captors in Sargodha and transferred to Jauharabad Wildlife Park, while hundreds of birds were rescued from various shops in Bhalwal Birds Market and released into the wild.

Referring to the third schedule in the Punjab Wildlife Act, Zaheer said that it is illegal to keep certain birds and animals such as parrots, sparrows, black bears, monkeys, and chikaurs in households. Those found keeping peacocks, deer, and chinkara deer without a license will face strict punishment, including custody.

Awareness campaigns, including pamphlets, hoarding boards, and flex banners, are being conducted in schools and colleges to educate people about the illegal possession of wildlife.

HONOUR KILLING: A man identified as Bilal shot and killed his 22-year-old sister Jawaria Bibi in village Dhal, 45 kilometers from Sargodha, in the name of honour.

The Bhera police have registered a case, and following post-mortem, the body of the deceased was handed over to her heirs.

Published in Dawn, April 4th, 2024