A video footage captured the terrifying incident when a young lion cub escaped and attacked a child in front of his shocked mother. The incident took place in Thailand, where 11-year-old Arthit Nueangnui was targeted by a one-year-old lioness on the evening of October 4. Surveillance cameras recorded the predator charging down the street in the Kanchanaburi province around 9:15 pm local time, attacking the boy.
Fortunately, a bystander, Sarawut Tokaeo, 43, intervened by hitting the lion’s head, allowing Arthit to escape with minor injuries. Both the child and Sarawut were promptly taken to a hospital for treatment and are reported to be in stable condition. Wildlife authorities later sedated the lioness named Mahaesee and transferred her to a wildlife facility for evaluation.
The lion’s owner, Parinya Parkpoom, 32, faced charges under the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act for releasing the wild animal without authorization. The offense carries a penalty of up to 50,000 baht and a maximum of six months in prison. Parinya took responsibility for the incident, apologizing to the families involved and agreeing to cover all medical costs. He also pledged to hand over Mahaesee to a wildlife management center.
Parinya explained that the lioness had escaped due to a broken chain while her enclosure was under maintenance. He expressed remorse for the incident and acknowledged his negligence in securing the animal properly. Villagers shared concerns about the lion’s repeated escapes, attributing them to the owner’s carelessness.
Arthit’s mother, Lek, expressed gratitude towards Sarawut for his bravery in saving her son from the lion’s attack. She described the emotional toll the incident took on her son, emphasizing the need for his full recovery. Lek highlighted the psychological impact on her son and the ongoing medical care required for his physical injuries.
Owning a pet lion in Thailand is permitted under strict regulations, including obtaining permits, registering the animal, and complying with safety standards set by authorities. Violators may face legal consequences such as fines, imprisonment, and confiscation of the animal as per wildlife laws in the country.
