Lion kills zookeeper in front of visitors at Thai safari park

BANGKOK, Sept 11 — A zookeeper was killed in a lion attack at Safari World Bangkok, raising concerns about safety standards and the park’s lion ownership, officials confirmed Wednesday.

The incident occurred at the zoo, which promotes itself as one of Asia’s largest open-air parks and charges about 1,200 baht (RM160) for lion- and tiger-feeding tours.

“The victim was a staff member who regularly fed the lions,” said Sadudee Punpugdee, wildlife protection director at the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. He said the man was mauled by six or seven lions after stepping out of his vehicle.

Safari World confirmed the death and said in a statement that it would “urgently review and strengthen safety measures to prevent such incidents from happening again.”

Witness Tavatchai Kanchanarin, a doctor visiting the park, told Thairath television that he saw the man leave an uncovered car and stand alone with his back to the animals. “He stood there for about three minutes, then a lion slowly approached and grabbed him from behind. He did not scream,” he said.

Edwin Wiek of Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand offered condolences, adding that the tragedy highlights the dangers of keeping wild animals in captivity. “Even when raised by humans from birth, they can still pose a serious threat without warning,” he said in a statement.

A senior zoo official told local media that all lions at Safari World are licensed and emphasized that staff are regularly reminded of safety protocols. The victim, who had worked as a supervisor at the park for more than 30 years, was described as “a kind man.”

Safari World’s website advertises opportunities for visitors to get close to lions, tigers, bears, and zebras roaming in open enclosures.

Lion ownership in Thailand is legal, and the captive population has surged in recent years, with nearly 500 registered across zoos, breeding farms, cafes, and private homes.

Animal rights group PETA called for the lions involved to be relocated to a sanctuary, stressing they were only acting on their natural instincts. — AFP