Chonburi —
On January 25th, 2024, residents of Moo 4 in the Huay Yai area of Chonburi were startled by the sight of two large lions roaming the street.
According to reports, the lions, named Asaw and Lin Lin, escaped from their enclosure at a house in Soi Khao Makok 13 due to a malfunctioning automatic gate.
Before authorities arrived, the owner, only identified as Ms. Sky, 28, managed to safely guide the lions back inside and secure the gate with a leash. Ms. Sky stated to reporters that she has been raising the lions, a male and a female, since they were cubs, approximately 45 days old, and now, at 10 months old, they have become part of the local community.
However, while some residents are fine with the lions, others expressed concern about their potential danger, especially given the area’s large population of children and elderly residents. They added that they often see the owner playing with the lions and feeding them large bags of chicken frames.
In addition, Ms. Sky has two pet rottweilers at her residence. She presented documents proving legal ownership of the lions to the inspecting authorities after the incident. She assured them that the lions are not aggressive and can be handled with caution. However, local authorities are reportedly planning to inspect the house to examine the lions.
This comes as private ownership of lions has risen as a major concern in Thailand and is the second incident with a lion in the Pattaya area in a week.
The incidents have also brought criticism online, with some, including Thai wildlife officials, considering changing laws allowing private ownership of lions in Thailand.
