Thai TikToker’s lion attacks 2 victims, including 11 year old boy in Kanchanaburi
Public anger grows over influencer’s reckless handling of protected species
A lion escaped from the home of a Thai TikToker and attacked two people, including an 11 year old boy, in the central province of Kanchanaburi on Saturday, October 4.
Viral footage captured the moment the young boy and another man fled from the lion, named Mahae Si. The incident occurred in a community in the Bo Phloi district of Kanchanaburi at around 11pm.
Locals rushed to the home of the lion’s owner, a well-known TikTok user, 32 year old Parinya Parkpoom, and pleaded with him to restrain the animal. Parinya was seen running out of his house but stopping at the fence, appearing confused and unsure of how to respond.
His apparent hesitation angered residents, who demanded that he control the lion and return it to its cage immediately. Parinya eventually complied and managed to subdue the animal.
The young victim reportedly suffered a severe wound to his left hip, along with additional scratches on his chest and arm. Another Thai man, 43 year old Sarawut Tokaew, was attacked while attempting to help the boy. Both victims are said to be in stable condition, though Sarawut required four stitches to a wound on his leg.
Officers from the Wildlife Conservation Office visited the scene yesterday, October 5, and transferred the lion to their facility for the safety of both Parinya and the local community.
Parinya claimed he had not intentionally allowed the lion to roam freely, saying it escaped from its cage inside the house.
He has been charged under Section 15 of the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act for releasing or recklessly leaving wild animals under care. The offence carries a penalty of up to six months in prison, a fine of up to 50,000 baht, or both.
Police said they would summon Parinya and the victims’ families for a meeting to negotiate compensation.
The attack has sparked widespread criticism online, with Thai netizens noting that the lion’s cage at Parinya’s home appeared substandard. However, relevant authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
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