Summary:
- Zahidul Islam was arrested in Jhenaidah for killing a protected fishing cat, a species listed under Bangladesh’s Wildlife Act.
- The incident gained attention after a video showing the cat tied to an electric rickshaw went viral on social media.
- Authorities confirmed Zahidul’s involvement and revealed his history of wildlife killings, with prior complaints filed against him.
- Legal action is being taken under the Wildlife Act, with officials emphasizing stricter enforcement to prevent such crimes.
A man has been arrested in Jhenaidah, Bangladesh, for killing a fishing cat, a protected species under the country’s wildlife conservation laws. Zahidul Islam, the accused, was detained on Saturday in the Naldanga Bazar area of Kaliganj Upazila after a video of the incident went viral on social media. The video depicted the cat’s body tied to the back of an electric rickshaw, sparking widespread outrage and prompting an investigation by the Forest Department.
The fishing cat, considered a vulnerable species globally and protected under Bangladesh’s Wildlife (Conservation and Protection) Act of 2012, was reportedly killed by Zahidul Islam. Authorities confirmed that he had a history of involvement in wildlife killings, with a general diary (GD) previously filed against him for similar offenses. Legal proceedings are now underway under Section 34(b) of the Wildlife Act, which prohibits such acts.
The Forest Department’s investigation involved consultations with local residents and public representatives to verify the video’s authenticity. Officials emphasized their commitment to enforcing wildlife protection laws and ensuring justice in this case. They also highlighted the need for stricter measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Wildlife (Conservation and Protection) Act, 2012, is a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s efforts to safeguard its biodiversity. It imposes severe penalties for harming or trading protected species, including imprisonment and fines. Despite these legal protections, incidents like this highlight ongoing challenges in combating wildlife crimes in the country.
Conservationists have called for increased awareness among local communities about the importance of protecting wildlife. They also stress the need for stronger law enforcement and alternative livelihood options to reduce dependency on illegal hunting and trading. This case underscores the critical need for vigilance and proactive measures to preserve Bangladesh’s rich biodiversity.
Source: Dhaka Tribune
