In Margalla Hills

ISLAMABAD: A Chinese national has been arrested in the federal capital for allegedly setting illegal snares with iron wires in the Margalla Hills to hunt protected wildlife.

The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) lodged a complaint, leading to a joint operation by wildlife officials and police. The suspect was caught red-handed in a restricted protected area.

During the arrest, the accused reportedly resisted and bit a wildlife guard, causing injury. Officials subdued him after a brief struggle that lasted nearly an hour.

The case was registered under the Islamabad Nature Conservation and Wildlife Management Act 2024 and the Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1979. Authorities recovered dangerous wire snares from the site, designed to trap and kill animals such as deer and other protected species.

**Official Confirmation**

An IWMB spokesperson confirmed the arrest, stating that the operation targeted illegal hunting activities threatening the biodiversity of the Margalla Hills National Park. The board has long suspected involvement of some local residents and foreign nationals, particularly Chinese citizens living in nearby areas, in such poaching incidents.

Police officials said the suspect entered the protected zone without permission. Investigations are underway to determine if he acted alone or as part of a larger network. The injured wildlife guard received immediate medical attention.

**Context of Wildlife Protection**

The Margalla Hills, located on the outskirts of Islamabad, form a critical ecological zone spanning thousands of hectares. Home to species including Himalayan grey goral, barking deer, and various birds, the area falls under strict protection laws.

According to official estimates, illegal hunting and habitat disruption have increased pressure on local wildlife populations in recent years. The IWMB conducts regular patrols, but challenges persist due to the hilly terrain and proximity to residential and commercial areas.

Pakistan hosts several important wildlife sanctuaries. The Margalla Hills National Park was established to preserve biodiversity near the capital. Violations carry penalties including fines and imprisonment under federal and provincial wildlife laws.

Chinese nationals form one of the largest expatriate communities in Pakistan, primarily linked to China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects. Thousands work across infrastructure, energy, and other sectors. While most comply with visa and residency rules, occasional cases of overstays or illegal activities have been reported in various cities.

**Recent Enforcement Trends**

Authorities have intensified actions against environmental crimes. In recent months, multiple operations targeted illegal hunting and trade in protected areas. Islamabad police and wildlife teams have conducted joint raids, resulting in several arrests.

Data from wildlife departments indicates rising complaints about snares and traps in northern regions. Such methods often cause prolonged suffering to animals and disrupt food chains. Officials estimate that unchecked poaching could affect tourism and conservation efforts in the Margalla area.

The federal capital maintains special focus on protecting green zones amid urban expansion. The Capital Development Authority (CDA) and IWMB coordinate to monitor sensitive ecological sites.

**Reactions and Implications**

Local conservation groups welcomed the arrest, calling for stricter monitoring of foreign nationals in protected zones. Environmental activists have urged authorities to increase patrols and use technology such as cameras for better surveillance.

The incident highlights ongoing challenges in balancing large-scale development projects with environmental protection. Pakistan and China maintain strong ties under CPEC, with billions of dollars invested in energy, roads, and special economic zones. Chinese workers contribute significantly to these initiatives.

However, isolated cases involving individuals have occasionally strained public perceptions. Officials from both sides usually resolve such matters through diplomatic and legal channels while emphasising rule of law.

Security agencies continue to provide protection to Chinese nationals working on strategic projects following past security incidents. A dedicated unit in Islamabad oversees their safety.

**Broader Enforcement Outlook**

Authorities plan to expand checks on illegal activities in protected forests and hills around the capital. Future operations may involve better coordination between police, wildlife boards, and immigration departments to verify residency status during field actions.

The arrested Chinese national remains in custody. Police have obtained physical remand for further questioning regarding possible links to wildlife trade networks. Courts wil