In April 2024, the Wildlife Combing Operation spearheaded by the Punjab government seized 3,159 protected animals and birds across the Punjab.

Under the supervision of Director General Wildlife & Parks Punjab, Mudassir Riaz Malik, the operation led to the challaning of 168 accused, who now face fines totalling Rs 2.5 million.

The Wildlife Combing Operation began in March 2024.

Extensive operations were conducted across all districts of the province, with DG Wildlife personally overseeing operations at the Tollinton Market, Lahore’s renowned bird market.

The operation yielded significant results, with 168 accused challaned under the Wildlife Act.

A total fine of Rs 2.5 million was imposed. The seized animals include 14 black bears, 34 monkeys, one tiger, one lioness, one wolf, one pangolin, two wild cats, two civet cats, one langur, one Urial lamb, one mongoose, one python, and various species of birds, totalling 3,159 animals and birds.

Among the confiscated birds are 127 Alexandrine Parakeets, 274 Rose-ringed parrots, macaws, cockatiels, and common parrots, along with 102 black, brown, and see-see partridges, 114 quails, 26 pheasants, 35 peacocks, 54 mynas, bank mynas, and 84 other wild birds.

Additionally, 2,502 house sparrows and 25 monitor lizards were seized during the operation, along with the recovery of one dead body of a common leopard.

Illegal possession of such animals, listed in Schedule 3 of the Wildlife Act, constitutes a crime. The department has urged to report any such instances through social media and other communication channels.