TikToker Rajab Butt sentenced for illegal possession of a lion cub

TikToker Rajab Butt was sentenced for illegally keeping a lion cub after a wildlife officer filed a complaint. Last month, authorities arrested him during a raid at his Lahore residence. The raid was conducted by the Punjab Wildlife Department and police. It followed a viral video showing Butt receiving a newborn lion cub as a wedding gift. The video sparked concerns about wildlife laws.

As part of his punishment, the court ordered Butt to perform one year of community service under the supervision of a probation officer. He must create monthly vlogs focusing on animal rights and receive approval before posting them. The Wildlife Department will provide educational materials on animal welfare and rights. Butt must also attend hearings if summoned or face additional legal consequences.

TikToker Rajab Butt admitted to illegally possessing the cub and expressed regret. He pledged to use his platform to raise awareness about wildlife protection and educate his followers on animal rights. The court also ruled that the cub, named “Bhatti,” would permanently stay at Lahore Safari Zoo under veterinary care.

Lahore Safari Zoo’s director, Tariq Janjua, confirmed that the cub had been confiscated and safely relocated. He warned citizens about the dangers of keeping wild animals as pets. Lions are unsuitable for domestication and need natural habitats. Janjua urged the public to respect wildlife and emphasized that removing animals from their natural environments is both cruel and illegal.