The gruesome killing of a rare deer in Islamabad’s Margalla Hills has rightfully sparked public outrage, after footage of the act circulated widely on social media. In response, the Kohsar police have registered a case and launched a search for the suspects—identified as Bashir Abbasi, Zain Abbasi, and other unnamed individuals from Gokeena village.
The FIR, filed on the complaint of Ayesha Shehzad, Assistant Director of the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB), invokes provisions of the Islamabad Nature Conservation and Wildlife Management Act, as well as Section 379 of the Pakistan Penal Code. The suspects now face potential jail time of up to three years and fines reaching Rs1 million.
The complaint outlines not just the killing of a protected animal, but a brazen disregard for wildlife laws meant to safeguard the fragile ecosystems of the Margalla Hills National Park. The FIR also calls for police assistance in recovering the remains of the animal, including its hide and skull, underscoring the seriousness of the crime.
Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Dr Musadik Malik, has condemned the incident in the strongest terms, describing it as “cruel” and “unacceptable.” He has ordered an immediate inquiry and demanded a report from relevant authorities.
The brutal act serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threats facing Pakistan’s protected wildlife. It also raises troubling questions about enforcement of conservation laws and public awareness of environmental responsibilities. The Margalla Hills are not only a national treasure but a vital sanctuary for biodiversity—and any violation of this space must be met with decisive legal action.
Justice in this case must go beyond symbolic punishment. It must serve as a deterrent, sending a clear message that the illegal hunting of protected species will not be tolerated. Authorities must act swiftly, transparently, and firmly—not just in apprehending the suspects, but in reinforcing the rule of law in all protected areas across the country.
