A Lahore court has sentenced vlogger Rajab Ali Butt to a year of community service after convicting him of illegally keeping a lion cub. The sentence requires Butt to create monthly vlogs promoting animal rights, starting February 2025 and continuing through January 2026.
Special Judicial Magistrate Hamidul Rehman Nasir issued the verdict, noting that the vlogger admitted guilt for possessing the lion cub without a valid licence.
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The magistrate explained that the offense falls under Section 21 of the Punjab Wildlife Act 1974, which carries a penalty of up to two years in jail, a fine ranging from Rs10,000 to Rs15,000, or both.
However, Butt’s openness in admitting wrongdoing and his willingness to educate the public on animal welfare led to the court’s decision to impose community service instead of a harsher sentence.
As part of his probation, Butt must produce one five-minute vlog each month, focusing on the importance of animal rights. These videos will aim to raise public awareness about wildlife protection. His community service will be monitored by Probation Officer Maheen Solat.
The court had earlier transferred the lion cub to the Lahore Wildlife Safari Zoo, ensuring its proper care. This case highlights the importance of adhering to wildlife protection laws and promoting ethical treatment of animals.
