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Captive Lion Attacks Child in Thailand, Sparking Outrage
5 Oct
Summary
- Lion kept in private home attacked a young boy
- Incident occurred in Kanchanaburi province, Thailand
- Owner charged with wildlife protection law violations
On October 5, 2025, a lion kept at a private residence in Thailand attacked a young boy, leaving him hospitalized with unspecified injuries. The incident occurred on Saturday night in the western Kanchanaburi province, about a two-hour drive from the capital Bangkok.
According to local media reports, the boy was on his way home from playing with other children when the big cat pounced on him. The wildlife department has identified the lion's owner as Parinya, who has been charged with violating wildlife protection laws. If convicted, Parinya faces up to six months in prison and a fine of 50,000 baht (approximately $1,500).
The authorities have seized the lion, and a wildlife breeding center has prepared a new home for the animal. Parinya has expressed shock over the attack and has promised to pay compensation and cover the boy's medical expenses. The wildlife department has urged people who keep wild animals to be aware of the potential dangers, as all animals have a ferocious instinct.
This incident highlights the ongoing issue of lion ownership in Thailand, where the captive population has exploded in recent years, with nearly 500 registered in zoos, breeding farms, petting cafes, and private homes. Experts have warned that this trend endangers both animals and humans, and likely fuels illicit trade domestically and abroad.
