Case registered over killing of rare flamingos at Rawal Lake

ISLAMABAD: A case has been registered at the Secretariat Police Station over the killing of rare migratory flamingos at Rawal Lake, weeks after the incident sparked outrage among environmentalists and wildlife conservation groups.

According to official documents, the FIR was lodgedon the complaint of the Deputy Director Fisheries. The case relates to the alleged illegal hunting of flamingos at Rawal Lake on June 3, 2026.

Officials said action has been initiated under provisions of the Wildlife Management Act and the Fisheries Ordinance. Three workers employed by the lake’s fishing contractor, along with several unidentified individuals, have been nominated in the case.

The development follows an investigation into the shooting of approximately 12 to 13 flamingos, which wildlife authorities described as a major setback for conservation efforts. The birds had recently returned to Rawal Lake after being absent from the area for several years.

Earlier, the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) launched an inquiry after reports surfaced that hunters had targeted a flock of flamingos and other waterbirds. Investigators collected spent cartridges and other evidence from the scene as part of the probe.

The killing of the birds drew widespread concern due to the rarity of flamingo sightings at Rawal Lake. Experts noted that the species is more commonly observed in other wetland habitats, making their recent arrival at the lake particularly significant.

Following the incident, the remaining birds reportedly abandoned the area, raising fears among conservationists about the impact on future migratory visits. The case has also attracted the attention of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, which has pledged strict action against those found responsible for violating wildlife protection laws.

Authorities say investigations are continuing and further legal proceedings will depend on the outcome of the inquiry.