Lahore wildlife raid exposes illegal taxidermy network after lion skinning video

LAHORE: Authorities in Lahore have arrested a suspect and uncovered a suspected illegal taxidermy network after a disturbing video showing a dead African lion being skinned went viral online.

According to officials, the arrest was made during a raid in the Begum Kot area, where Wildlife Rangers recovered a large number of preserved wild animals from a residential property. The seized specimens included lions, tigers, crocodiles, monkeys, parrots, pigeons and rabbits, indicating the scale of the operation.

Deputy Chief Wildlife Ranger Lahore Region, Sakhi Muhammad Joiya, said the accused was allegedly involved in removing animal hides, preserving bodies and selling them. He added that three to four families are believed to be part of the network, while several suspects managed to escape during the raid.

Despite the recovery of multiple preserved animals, officials confirmed that the remains of the lion seen in the viral video have not yet been located.

The case has raised serious concerns about illegal wildlife trade and the unregulated preservation of animal remains. Under the Punjab Wildlife Act 1974, keeping, preserving or trading wild animals without proper licences is a punishable offence, carrying penalties including fines and potential imprisonment.

The Wildlife Department had launched an investigation shortly after the video surfaced, forming a special team to trace those involved. Officials say further action is underway, and efforts are ongoing to dismantle the wider network.

Authorities have reiterated that strict legal action will be taken against all individuals found involved, stressing the importance of enforcing wildlife protection laws to curb illegal hunting and trafficking.