TV
A tragic incident unfolded at Safari World Bangkok on Tuesday when a veteran zookeeper was mauled to death by lions inside the safari zone, in full view of stunned visitors. The attack, which happened around 11am on 10 September, is the first such case reported at the zoo in four decades.
The victim was identified as Jian Rangkharasamee, 58, who had worked at Safari World for more than 20 years.
How the Attack Happened
According to police, Jian had stepped out of his vehicle and bent down to pick something up when a lion crept up behind him, dragging him to the ground. Moments later, three to four other lions joined in, mauling him for nearly 15 minutes.
Many visitors initially mistook the attack for playful behaviour and did not intervene. “People thought the lions might just be trying to embrace him, so no one approached,” said witness Colonel Dr Thawatchai Kanchanarin. Eventually, panicked honking by visitors failed to scare the animals away.
The zookeeper was later rescued and rushed to hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Zoo and Authorities Respond
The Department of National Parks has temporarily shut down Safari World’s drive-in safari zone, saying the attack happened during feeding time when one lion “was not in a good mood.”
Safari World Bangkok issued a statement expressing deep condolences to Jian’s family, pledging full support and compensation. The zoo stressed this was the first such tragedy in 40 years and promised to urgently review and strengthen safety measures to prevent a repeat.
