TikTok star Rajab Butt has been sentenced for unlawfully keeping a lion cub, a violation of wildlife protection laws. The case came to light after a wildlife officer filed a complaint with a Judicial Magistrate in Lahore, prompting an investigation. Butt admitted to the offense, leading to his arrest following a joint operation by the Punjab Wildlife Department and local police.
The incident gained public attention when a video surfaced showing Butt receiving the lion cub as a wedding gift. This sparked widespread concern about the illegal ownership of wild animals. Authorities acted swiftly, detaining him and confiscating the cub, which was later handed over to the Punjab Wildlife Department.
As part of his sentence, Rajab Butt has been ordered to complete one year of community service under the supervision of a probation officer. His responsibilities include creating monthly vlogs focusing on animal rights and wildlife protection. These videos will require prior approval from the probation officer and aim to raise public awareness about safeguarding wild animals.
The Wildlife Department will provide educational materials to assist Butt in understanding animal rights, and he must comply with court-mandated probation hearings. Non-compliance with these directives could lead to further legal repercussions. His community service is intended to encourage a broader understanding of wildlife protection among his social media audience.
The court also decided that the confiscated African lion cub would remain in the care of the Punjab Wildlife Department. It has been permanently housed at the Lahore Safari Zoo, where the administration has named it “Bhatti.” In a statement, Butt expressed regret, acknowledging his mistake and committing to using his platform to promote animal welfare.
