Kanchanaburi: “Nong Mahesi,” a lion owned by a well-known influencer in Kanchanaburi province, escaped its cage and attacked two villagers, prompting officials to move the animal to the Bueng Chawak Wildlife Management Development Center. A police report has been filed against the lion’s owner.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident involved a female lion named “Mahasee,” approximately 1 year and 2 months old, escaping from the home of Mr. Parinya, a 32-year-old influencer in Nong Kum Subdistrict, Bo Phloi District. The lion attacked two villagers, including 11-year-old Athit, who sustained scratch and bite marks, with severe wounds on his right hip. Another villager, Mr. Sarawut, 43, who intervened to help, received scratches on his leg requiring four stitches. The attack occurred around 9:30 PM. Villagers urged the lion’s owner to recapture the lion promptly.
Witnesses from the scene reported that children were playing near the lion’s enclosure. Athit, while running home, was attacked by the lion. Mr. Sarawut, also known as Boy, courageously intervened, managing to rescue the child by striking the lion until it released him. Athit’s father, Mr. Somphon, confirmed that his son was out of danger, despite sustaining a large wound. The lion’s owner apologized but has yet to discuss compensation.
Mr. Parinya explained that renovations to the lion’s cage necessitated its temporary chaining. He was unaware of the lion’s escape until villagers informed him. He ensured the lion’s prompt return to its enclosure and committed to covering all medical expenses for the injured. He admitted fault and extended apologies to the affected families.
Mr. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation, directed officials to the scene immediately. The lion was sedated and moved to the Bueng Chawak Wildlife Management Development Center in Suphan Buri Province. Mr. Parinya agreed to the lion’s relocation and pledged to cover all associated costs. He committed to adhering to official regulations.
Investigations revealed that the lion was registered and microchipped but housed in an inadequate cage. Officials had previously instructed Mr. Parinya to reinforce the cage. The escape and subsequent attack violated the Wild Animal Reservation and Protection Act of 2019, exposing him to legal penalties, including imprisonment and fines. Section 377 of the Criminal Code was also breached, as it prohibits allowing dangerous animals to roam unattended. The lion has been successfully relocated to the wildlife management center.