In brief
Rajab Butt, a popular YouTuber, has been mandated to produce 12 educational videos following his illegal possession of a lion cub.
Rajab Butt, a Pakistani YouTube sensation boasting 5.6 million subscribers, has been sentenced to create 12 animal welfare videos as a consequence for illegally owning a lion cub. The cub was given to him as a wedding gift last month by Umar Dolla, a fellow YouTuber. Butt, under a community service order, is required to upload a five-minute educational video each month for a year, aimed at raising awareness about wildlife issues. The cub has since been relocated to Lahore Safari Zoo, where it has been named Bhatti. Admitting his regret, Butt stated he recognized that keeping wild animals unlawfully is not appropriate. He emphasizes the importance of creating positive content as an influencer. After a video surfaced online showing him with the cub, authorities step in, leading to legal action. Dolla, meanwhile, tried to assert ownership of the cub but was denied by the court. Butt is committed to using his platform to advocate for animal rights, supported by the local wildlife department. The zoo's director states that domestication of lions is impossible, highlighting the cruelty and risks involved in keeping wild animals.
