Lahore – An 8-year-old girl was injured after being attacked by a pet lioness in the Bhikky Wala village area of Lahore, highlighting growing concerns over the keeping of exotic animals in residential neighborhoods.
The Incident
According to Lahore police, the girl sustained injuries to her ear, neck, and leg during the attack. She was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment, and authorities confirmed that her condition is stable.
Local residents reported that the lioness was kept at a private residence in Bhikky Wala village. The attack occurred when the animal allegedly escaped from the property and targeted the child. Eyewitnesses expressed shock, describing the incident as terrifying and unprecedented for the neighborhood.
Response by Authorities
Police and wildlife officials arrived promptly at the scene following the attack. A joint team from the Lahore Police and the Wildlife Department cordoned off the area and began investigations. Officials said efforts are underway to locate and apprehend the lioness’s owner.
A spokesperson for the Deputy Inspector General (Operations) confirmed that the suspects responsible for keeping the lioness have fled the scene but are expected to be arrested soon. The lioness attacked the girl, injuring her leg and ear. The suspects escaped with the animal, but we are confident they will be apprehended shortly, the official said.
Legal and Safety Concerns
Keeping exotic animals such as lions, tigers, and other wild predators as pets is illegal under Pakistan’s wildlife protection laws. The Wildlife Protection Act prohibits private individuals from owning such species without strict permits. Violators can face fines, imprisonment, and confiscation of the animals.
Despite these regulations, cases of private ownership of dangerous animals have occasionally surfaced in Pakistan, often putting both residents and the animals at risk. Experts warn that housing a wild predator in a residential area is inherently unsafe and can lead to tragic incidents.
Dr. Saad Khalid, a wildlife conservationist in Lahore, said, People underestimate the strength and instincts of wild animals. Even if they are raised in captivity, a lion or lioness can attack unpredictably. Such incidents could have been avoided with proper awareness and strict enforcement of wildlife laws.
Rising Incidents Nationwide
Over the past decade, several attacks by privately kept exotic animals have been reported in Pakistan. While exact statistics are limited, media reports indicate at least five serious attacks on humans by captive big cats in the last five years. Authorities often respond by capturing the animals and launching investigations into the owners’ negligence.
The incident in Bhikky Wala has reignited debate on the need for stronger regulation and stricter penalties for illegal pet ownership. Public safety advocates argue that more awareness campaigns are needed to educate citizens about the dangers of keeping wild animals at home.
Next Steps
Police and wildlife officials have pledged to locate the suspects and ensure that the lioness is safely secured in a wildlife facility. The girl’s family is receiving medical care, and authorities are reviewing safety measures in the neighborhood.
Residents of Bhikky Wala expressed both relief and concern. We are thankful the girl survived, but no one should have a lioness in a village, said a local resident, requesting anonymity.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with illegal exotic pets. Authorities have urged the public to report any instances of wild animals being kept in private homes to prevent similar attacks in the future.
