On August 20, 2025, residents of the Police Foundation Housing Society in Islamabad’s O-9 sector reported a startling sighting of a lion roaming the area, prompting swift action from local authorities. The Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) is leading efforts to verify the claim and ensure the safety of both the community and the animal.
Unusual Sighting Sparks Concern
The reported lion sighting has caused unease in the quiet residential area, known for its well-planned streets and proximity to the capital’s scenic Margalla Hills. The IWMB quickly dispatched a rescue team to the location, collaborating with Punjab Wildlife, Rescue 1122, and the National Police Foundation to address the situation. Authorities are following strict protocols to locate and safely handle the animal, if found.
The Police Foundation Housing Society, established in 1975 under the Charitable Endowments Act, is home to police personnel, their families, and other residents. With over 60% of its plots developed into homes, the community is a bustling hub, making the alleged presence of a lion highly unusual.
Coordinated Response Underway
The IWMB has emphasized that protecting residents is the top priority. Teams are actively searching the area to confirm the sighting, as it remains unclear whether the animal is a lion or another large wild creature.
- Rescue Efforts: The IWMB, Punjab Wildlife, and Rescue 1122 are working together to track and manage the situation.
- Public Advisory: Residents have been urged to stay vigilant, avoid secluded areas, and report any unusual activity to authorities.
- Safety Protocols: All actions are being guided by established wildlife management procedures to ensure no harm comes to the public or the animal.
The IWMB’s statement on X highlighted the urgency of the response: “Wild Animal Reported in O-9, Isld. Allegedly lion was reportedly seen in Police Foundation, O-9. IWMB’s rescue team reached the site & linked with Punjab Wildlife, Rescue 1122 & Police Foundation to ensure safe handling as per protocols if found any. Public safety is our top priority.”
Community on Edge, Authorities Reassure
Residents of the O-9 sector are understandably anxious. Social media posts from the community have raised concerns about safety, with some calling for faster action to resolve the issue. One local Facebook page noted ongoing problems with infrastructure like streetlights, which could heighten risks if a wild animal is present.
The IWMB has reassured the public that all necessary steps are being taken. “We are working closely with relevant departments to verify this report and ensure the safety of residents and any wildlife involved,” an IWMB spokesperson said. Efforts are ongoing to determine whether the animal is an escaped exotic pet or a wild creature that wandered into the urban area.
What’s Next?
Authorities expect to provide an update soon as they continue their search. If a lion is confirmed, it could point to issues with illegal pet ownership or gaps in wildlife monitoring near urban zones. For now, residents are advised to stay cautious and report any sightings to the IWMB or Rescue 1122.
The incident underscores the challenges of managing human-wildlife interactions in rapidly growing cities like Islamabad, where urban areas border natural habitats. The IWMB remains committed to resolving the situation swiftly and safely.
