Lahore:
Three rare female Blackbucks were stolen from Jhang Wildlife Park during the night between Wednesday and Thursday, triggering concern about the park’s safety and leadership. A two-member investigation committee is composed of orders from the Director-General of Wildlife to investigate the incident. A four for theft has also been registered.
According to information received by Express Pakinomist, the theft was discovered the following morning when the staff entered the Blackbuck cabinet to provide feed and noted that the animals were missing.
Deputy Director Wildlife Ranger headquarters confirmed that a departmental survey is underway under the supervision of Dr. Misbah Sarwar, a senior female officer in the department. The two-member committee is expected to submit its report within three days.
“The guilty people involved in the theft will be treated strictly under the law,” the official said. “Departmental action will also be taken against staff found guilty of negligence.”
It has also been found that the senior workers in Jhang Wildlife Park are currently gone for official education. In their absence, the staff who were recruited under the Green Pakistan program were awarded duty. However, their contracts expired on June 30 and raised further concerns about the management and supervision of the park during the time of the event.
Animal life officials stated that the park was home to a total of seven Blackbuck, three of which are reported missing. The minimal market value of a single blackbuck is estimated to Rs. 200,000.
However, sources said that four animals were allegedly stolen, a male and three females, although officials maintain that only three females were taken.
