A case of cruelty to a fox cub is being investigated in Tajikistan.

An investigation is underway in Tajikistan's Nurabad district following a case of cruelty to a wild animal, a video of which was previously circulated on social media. This was reported by the press service of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan.

According to the agency, an investigation revealed that the incident involved residents of the village of Kalanak in the Mudzhiharf jamoat of the Nurabad district. A group of minors caught a fox cub in its natural habitat and injured it.

Environmental protection officials, together with the Nurabad District Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, identified the participants in the incident and their addresses. Statements were also obtained from the minors and their parents.

According to the information received, this case is undergoing a comprehensive review and investigation. Appropriate measures will be taken in accordance with the laws of the Republic of Tajikistan.

As follows from the explanations of the minors, they committed this act due to ignorance of the requirements of the law and a lack of understanding of the consequences of such behavior in relation to wild animals.

In order to prevent a recurrence of such incidents, environmental protection officials conducted explanatory and educational work with minors and their parents.

The agency noted that the actions committed contain signs of illegal removal of a wild animal from its natural habitat, harm to wildlife, cruelty to wildlife, and violation of wildlife conservation and use regulations.

The Environmental Protection Committee emphasized that wild animals are an important part of the country's biodiversity, and their protection and conservation are the responsibility of every citizen. The agency also reiterated that cruelty to animals and illegal interference in their natural habitat are unacceptable.

Furthermore, the Committee believes that raising environmental awareness among adolescents and young adults is an important way to prevent such incidents. Educational efforts in this area will continue on an ongoing basis.

Citizens, especially young people and minors, were urged to demonstrate a responsible and caring attitude towards nature and wildlife and to avoid such actions.