Cross-Border Conflict: Nilgai's Tragic Fate in Pakistan

A nilgai that wandered into Pakistan from India was killed by locals after damaging their crops. The incident occurred in Bahawalnagar, near Lahore. Police have filed a case against 12 people for allegedly hunting and torturing the animal. No arrests have been made so far.

A tragic incident unfolded as a nilgai that strayed across the India-Pakistan border met its untimely fate at the hands of locals in Bahawalnagar, 400 km from Lahore. The animal, accused of destroying crops, was subjected to a brutal attack by over a dozen individuals.

According to Punjab police, a case has been opened against 12 people for the 'hunting, torturing, and killing' of the Indian nilgai. Despite timely information given by the public, wildlife officials were slow to respond to the unfolding situation.

The First Information Report (FIR), lodged by Senior Wildlife Ranger Seemab Fatima, details how the wildlife team witnessed armed individuals chasing and fatally injuring the nilgai with sticks. The attackers fled upon the team's arrival, leaving the animal to succumb to its injuries. Police stress that nilgais often venture into fields in search of food.

(With inputs from agencies.)