MIANWALI, October 14, 2026 — The Punjab Wildlife Department has arrested three alleged offenders and seized 33 pigeons and 33 trapping nets during a raid against illegal falcon trapping in the Noorpur Thal area.
The operation was conducted on the directions of the Director General Wildlife Punjab and under the supervision of the Deputy Chief Wildlife Ranger, Chashma. Head Wildlife Ranger Mianwali Kaleem Khan Niazi led the raid alongside field staff.
According to the department, officials recovered 33 live pigeons being used as decoys and 33 nets allegedly intended for trapping falcons and other protected birds. Three suspects were arrested in connection with the alleged illegal activity.
Action Against Illegal Wildlife Trapping
The raid forms part of the department’s ongoing efforts to curb the illegal capture of falcons and other protected bird species.
Illegal trapping can threaten wild bird populations, disrupt ecosystems and undermine biodiversity conservation. The use of live decoys and trapping nets can also expose birds to injury and stress.
Falcons play an important role in natural ecosystems as predators, helping regulate populations of smaller animals. Protecting them in the wild requires effective enforcement against illegal capture and trade, alongside public awareness and habitat conservation.
The operation highlights the role of wildlife enforcement teams in tackling activities that threaten protected species. Further details regarding legal proceedings against the arrested suspects were not provided in the department’s announcement.
The Punjab Wildlife Department has reiterated its commitment to protecting wildlife and preventing the illegal trapping of protected birds.
