Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan on Wednesday said that those responsible for the disappearance of rare animals at Gazipur Safari Park will face severe punishment.

“Not just termination of employment, but punishment should be such that no one dares to commit such negligence in the future,” the adviser said during a briefing with the press after visiting the Gazipur Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park.

Referring to the recent incident of missing animals, the adviser said that the disappearance of a lemur indicates a gap in management. “After speaking with those responsible, I have identified shortcomings in the CCTV and security systems,” she added.

She also mentioned that a strong investigative committee, consisting of wildlife and criminal experts, will be formed to ensure transparency in the investigation.

She expressed concern over abnormal behavioural patterns observed in some elephants and jaguars. “This park should be a place not only for entertainment but also to learn love and empathy for animals,” she said.

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Addressing the Forest Department officials, she emphasised that it should not be the case that work only happens when government projects are in place.

“The Safari Park is a national asset. It requires regular allocations and goodwill for its development and maintenance,” she added.

She also mentioned that communication is underway with experts from Sri Lanka, Thailand, and India regarding the welfare of captive elephants, and a new project for the welfare of captive elephants is awaiting approval.