During a recent search operation aimed at curbing the illegal trade of rare wildlife species, the Punjab Wildlife Department recovered a snow leopard skin and arrested those involved. The operation, targeting a group engaged in the unlawful sale of such rare animals, is ongoing as authorities continue to track down additional members of the group.
According to the department, the recovered snow leopard skin has an estimated international market value of around $20,000. The illegal trade was conducted via social media platforms.
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Punjab Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards wildlife protection violations, noting that such illegal activities further endanger already vulnerable species. Snow leopards are among the endangered wildlife in Pakistan, with an estimated population of 250–420 individuals, as reported by the World Population Review.
