A chilling incident was caught on video as a young lion cub escaped and launched an attack on a child in front of the child’s horrified mother.
The event unfolded in Thailand on October 4 when 11-year-old Arthit Nueangnui found himself in the lioness’s path as she broke free in Kanchanaburi province at approximately 9:15 pm local time. Surveillance footage captured the moment the lioness lunged at the boy, described as “small and thin,” and bit into his side.
Fortunately, a quick-thinking bystander, Sarawut Tokaeo, aged 43, intervened by striking the lioness on the head. This action allowed Arthit to escape the dangerous situation after sustaining claw injuries. Subsequently, the lioness was safely returned to her owner, Parinya Parkpoom, aged 32.
Both Arthit and Sarawut received medical attention at a hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition. Authorities confirmed that wildlife officials tranquilized Mahaesee, the lioness, on October 5 and transported her for examination and containment by veterinarians.
Attapol Charoenchansa, the director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), stated that charges were filed against the owner for breaching the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act’s Article 15, which prohibits the release of wild animals by permit holders. This incident serves as a cautionary tale for responsible wildlife ownership.
The violation carries penalties of up to 50,000 baht (1,150 GBP) and a maximum of six months’ imprisonment. Parinya expressed remorse to the affected families and pledged to cover all medical costs. Additionally, he agreed to transfer Mahaesee to the Bungchawak Wildlife Management Development Centre in Suphan Buri province.
Parinya explained that he had secured the lioness to a post due to ongoing renovations of her enclosure. Upon learning of the escape and subsequent attack, he rushed to contain the lioness and acknowledged full responsibility for the incident and associated expenses.
Residents expressed relief as wildlife personnel safely removed Mahaesee, noting previous instances where the lioness had escaped the property. Villager Sarawut, known as Boy, emphasized the owner’s negligence as a recurring factor in the lioness’s escapes.
Arthit’s mother, Lek, praised Sarawut for his heroic actions in saving her son from the lioness, acknowledging the trauma inflicted on her child. She recounted the emotional toll of the incident on her family and the challenges her son faced during his recovery.
Ownership of lions in Thailand is permissible under strict regulations outlined in the country’s wildlife laws. Compliance requires obtaining permits, registering and microchipping the animal, and meeting stringent safety standards set by the Department of National Parks. Violators risk fines, imprisonment, and confiscation of the animal.
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