Muzaffarabad – A comprehensive Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) training program for wildlife staff successfully concluded with a ceremony that celebrated the dedication and achievements of its participants. The event saw the distribution of certificates, field gear, and survey devices to the trainees, equipping them for critical wildlife protection and crime investigation tasks.

The Honorable Minister for Wildlife and Fisheries, Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK), Sardar Muhammad Javed Ayub, graced the occasion, alongside the Honorable Secretary for Environment and Wildlife, Mr. Amir Mehmood. The ceremony was further enriched by the presence of Director Wildlife and Fisheries, Mr. Naeem Iftikhar Dar, Director PID, and several other distinguished guests.

In his remarks, the Honorable Minister lauded the Snow Leopard Foundation (SLF) for organizing this essential training for wildlife staff, emphasizing the importance of protecting and rescuing wildlife in AJK. He expressed his keen interest in fostering similar initiatives in the future.

The Honorable Secretary for Environment and Wildlife congratulated the participants on successfully completing the training and extended his full support for further efforts in wildlife conservation. During the event, certificates and field equipment were distributed to the trainees to enhance their field capabilities.

As a notable gesture, SLF handed over two comprehensive Crime Scene Investigation kits to the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, AJK. These kits aim to support the expansion of wildlife crime investigation activities across additional areas in the region.

The project was funded by the UK government through the Illegal Wildlife Trade Challenge Fund (IWTCF) under the Biodiversity Challenge Funds, highlighting international collaboration in combating wildlife crime and promoting conservation efforts.

This impactful training marks another step forward in equipping local wildlife staff with the skills and tools necessary to protect AJK’s rich biodiversity and combat illegal wildlife trade effectively.