Thai wildlife department to confine 5 lions that killed Bangkok zookeeper

BANGKOK – Thailand’s wildlife and parks authority said on Sept 11 that it will inspect the Bangkok zoo where a 58‑year‑old zookeeper was

fatally mauled by a pride of lions

, with the five animals to be confined for behavioural adjustments.

Mr Atthapol Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) said the department would send officers to inspect the entire Safari World, including the strength of cages, visitor services, animal control equipment and emergency response units.

“The most important thing is that the five lions involved will be confined and undergo behavioural adjustment. They have exhibited dangerous behaviour towards humans, and without intervention, this behaviour could become habitual,” he said.

Mr Atthapol added that the incident likely stemmed from the zookeeper’s negligence and that should not have left the vehicle, as it was inherently dangerous.

But he noted that it took a considerable amount of time for help to reach the scene, and that better measures should be in place, especially for the safety of staff.

Mr Atthapol further commented that the wild animal zones would remain closed until the zoo is deemed ready.

This includes ensuring proper animal care, establishing emergency plans and providing first aid training. These measures must be thoroughly rehearsed before reopening.

There are 620 lions registered with the DNP across 85 owners, including 10 zoos and the rest private breeders and establishments.

The DNP has also ordered inspections nationwide, especially for private owners, to ensure that lions are housed in appropriate cages. Failure to comply will result in the confiscation of the animals.

Mr Atthapol also explained that the lions were fed regularly, and it is believed that the attack was driven by the animals’ instincts. The victim was attacked on the neck from behind, and the other lions joined in, dragging the keeper around the vehicle.

Additionally, the department will inspect whether proper documentation is in place for wildlife ownership, including dangerous animals, and will ensure that their health and care standards are met.

Safari World announced that its Safari Park and Marine Park will remain open as usual, with only the Predator Zone, where the lions and tigers are housed, to be temporarily closed for maintenance and additional animal safety measures.

“In the light of the recent accident involving a staff member in the lion zone, the employee sustained severe injuries and later passed away. The company expresses its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and will provide full support and assistance to them,” Safari World said in a statement.

The company emphasised that in more than 40 years of operation, no similar incident had occurred.

Safari World said its highest priority was the safety of both visitors and staff, and reminded everyone not to leave vehicles during open‑zoo tours, particularly in areas housing dangerous animals.

Safari World added that it will urgently review and strengthen safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

The attack, which took place in front of tourists on Sept 10, has raised public concern over animal safety and the zoo’s operational procedures.

The police are fast‑tracking an investigation after video footage of the incident circulated widely on social media. THE NATION/ASIA NEWS NETWORK