On September 7, wildlife officials in AJK’s Haveli district discovered the injured leopard in a nullah (water channel). When the animal was found, she was unable to stand or move her hind legs. Initially, the rescuers believed that she had suffered from internal injuries, as there were no visible wounds or signs of external bleeding. However, after being handed over to the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) for treatment, the true extent of her injuries was revealed.
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At the IWMB’s rescue center, an X-ray report showed that Malika had been shot four times. The bullets had caused severe damage to her body, particularly affecting her spinal cord and rear paws. Veterinary surgeons immediately operated and managed to remove one bullet, but her condition was still deemed “critical” by the board.
Bullets Prove Fatal
Malika’s injuries were grave. The gunshots had left her spine and heart region severely damaged. According to the IWMB, the bullets were fired from a 12-bore shotgun. One bullet, in particular, was lodged near her heart, while another was found close to her spine, leading to a rapid deterioration in her condition.
Despite the efforts of the medical team, which included surgery and continuous care, Malika’s chances of survival were slim from the start. The veterinarians had already warned of minimal recovery prospects, but the rescue team hoped to give her a fighting chance. Unfortunately, the damage caused by the gunshot wounds proved too severe, and Malika succumbed to her injuries.
Legal Action and Investigation
Following Malika’s death, the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Wildlife Department immediately initiated legal action. An official investigation was launched, and a first information report (FIR) was filed with local police against unknown attackers. Authorities are still working to identify the individuals responsible for shooting the endangered leopard.
Pakistan’s wildlife laws classify the common leopard as a protected species, and hunting these animals is strictly prohibited. However, incidents like this are not uncommon, with leopards facing threats from poaching, habitat destruction, and conflicts with local communities. These factors continue to endanger the survival of this already vulnerable species.
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The leopard’s body has been transferred to the Pakistan Museum of Natural History for taxidermy. This preservation will be used for research and educational purposes, raising awareness about the challenges facing wildlife conservation in Pakistan.