Gilgit – In a significant step towards strengthening wildlife protection in Gilgit-Baltistan, the Snow Leopard Foundation, in collaboration with the Parks and Wildlife Department, organized a three-day training workshop on Wildlife Crime Scene Investigation (CSI). The workshop aimed to equip rangers with modern skills to combat poaching, gather scientific evidence, and ensure the legal prosecution of offenders.

Illegal hunting has become a growing threat, undermining the conservation efforts supported by regulated trophy hunting programs. These programs, conducted through special paid permits, not only protect wildlife but also provide local communities with essential foreign exchange. However, the lack of proper evidence often leads to the release of poachers, perpetuating illegal hunting activities.

To address this challenge, 28 rangers from various districts of Gilgit-Baltistan participated in the training. They learned advanced techniques to prevent poaching, collect evidence scientifically, and meet legal requirements for prosecuting wildlife crimes. The training sessions were led by Divisional Forest Officers Muhammad Isa and Muhammad Jaffer, along with Dr. Hussain Ali, Senior Program Manager at the Snow Leopard Foundation.

The workshop concluded with a ceremony attended by Dr. Zakir Hussain, Chief Conservator of Parks and Wildlife Gilgit-Baltistan. He lauded the Snow Leopard Foundation for its initiative and emphasized the importance of incorporating CSI’s modern and scientific methods into the department’s operations.

At the end of the event, participants were awarded certificates and provided with CSI kits, ensuring they are well-equipped to protect the region’s unique biodiversity.

This training marks a critical step forward in the fight against illegal poaching, empowering rangers to safeguard the wildlife and ecosystems of Gilgit-Baltistan effectively.