A major security breach occurred at Lahore’s Jallo Park when a lion escaped from its enclosure, prompting swift action from Punjab’s wildlife department.
According to initial reports, the escape was caused by an employee, Sharif Masih, who allegedly unlocked the lion’s cage deliberately. Authorities have since taken him into custody and launched a formal investigation.
The wildlife department has formed a three-member committee to probe the incident. The committee includes the director of Lahore Zoo, the deputy director of Wildlife Lahore, and a veterinary officer from Safari Park. Officials have been given a strict 12-hour deadline to complete their inquiry.
Park staff quickly responded to the emergency, successfully tranquilizing the lion and safely returning it to its enclosure. A sedative was later administered to ensure the animal’s full recovery.
The wildlife department is considering filing terrorism charges against the suspect and has vowed to implement stricter security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In a separate development, Lahore’s wildlife officials have intensified their crackdown on illegal bird trade. Two bird sellers were recently arrested, and hundreds of birds were rescued. The Wildlife Department has urged the public to report illegal bird trading to help protect endangered species.