Bangkok: A tragic incident unfolded at a private zoo where a long-time employee was fatally mauled by lions after exiting his vehicle in the safari zone. The zoo has launched an investigation to understand why the employee, who was aware of the safety protocols, chose to leave the car.
According to Thai News Agency, an Indian tourist captured footage of the incident, showing the employee stepping out of his vehicle before being ambushed by a lion from behind. The lion dragged him to a group of four other lions, leading to a fatal attack. The video reveals that the official did not resist or call for help during the attack.
Col. Dr. Thawatchai Kanchanarin, a witness to the attack, recounted his observations. He noted that upon arriving at the lion zone, he saw the employee's car parked alone, which seemed unusual since it was not feeding time. The employee exited the car and stood with his back to the lions, which raised concerns. Moments later, a lion attacked him, and the lack of resistance from the employee was notable. Despite the efforts of tourists honking their horns, help arrived only after 10-15 minutes.
The bizarre behavior of the employee has prompted suggestions for a medical examination to check for substances that might have impaired his judgment. Investigations are ongoing to determine the reasons behind this breach of protocol.
Pol. Col. Nirutphon Yothamat and Mr. Yutthana Phithaktha, the Zoo Manager, inspected the scene after the incident. The deceased, a 58-year-old employee with nearly 30 years of experience, was responsible for security at the tiger and lion exhibits. The zoo manager confirmed that the employee was alone due to his partner being away on errands at the time.
The zoo's regulations strictly prohibit staff from exiting vehicles in the lion zone. Despite these guidelines, the employee's actions remain unexplained. The zoo emphasized that the lions were not hungry and that the attack was likely driven by instinct. In response, the zoo has initiated measures to support the employee's family.
A colleague of the deceased expressed shock at the incident, noting that the employee had extensive experience with lions and was considered highly familiar with them. The zoo has expressed its condolences and commitment to assisting the family.
Mr. Sadudee Panpakdee from the Wildlife and Plant Protection Division has confirmed that regular inspections of the zoo, including its 32 lions, had previously reported no incidents of attacks. However, a comprehensive investigation is now underway to ensure all protocols and legal requirements were adhered to.
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation is also scrutinizing the zoo's records and operations, including the reported death of 13 lions from the original count of 45. These findings will be critical in understanding any procedural lapses that could have contributed to the tragedy.
At the hospital, Ms. Rattana, the deceased's sister, shared her family's deep concern over the dangers of his job. She described her brother as the family's pillar, whose loss leaves a significant void. The zoo has pledged to offer the best possible support to the bereaved family during this difficult time.