TikTok Influencer's Pet Lioness Escapes and Attacks Two People in Thailand Village - Legal Consequences Follow

Two individuals were promptly transported to a nearby medical facility to receive necessary treatment after an attack.

In a shocking incident in Thailand's central province of Kanchanaburi, a pet lioness belonging to a social media influencer escaped confinement and attacked two people, including an 11-year-old child. The alarming event occurred on Saturday, October 4, when the young boy was returning home from playing with friends, only to be suddenly pounced upon by the escaped big cat.

During the attack on the boy, 43-year-old Sarawut Tokaew intervened, resulting in him sustaining a leg injury, according to Metro's report. Both victims subsequently required hospitalization for their injuries.

The lioness, approximately one year old, is owned by 32-year-old TikTok influencer Parinya Parkpoom. The animal owner and both victims reside in the same village community. Reports indicate the lioness had been secured to a pole within the house before breaking free. Video footage circulating online shows the frightening scene of the lioness running along the street while terrified residents attempt to escape to safety.

When the pet escaped, Parinya pursued the animal but hesitated to take action, appearing uncertain about how to handle the situation. His indecision angered local residents, who demanded he control his dangerous pet. The lioness was eventually retrieved from a nearby field and properly caged.

"I apologise for what happened, it was an accident," Parkpoom stated, adding that he was prepared to provide financial compensation for the boy's medical expenses.

Attapol Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), announced that the environment ministry had instructed officials to take legal measures against Parinya, confiscate the animal, and relocate it to a professional wildlife care facility.

Parkpoom has been charged with violating Article 15 of the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act, which prohibits individuals from releasing or abandoning wild animals under their care. If found guilty, he could face up to six months imprisonment, a fine of up to 50,000 baht (approximately Rs 1.36 lakh), or both penalties.

Notably, lion ownership remains legal in Thailand, and the country has experienced a significant increase in its captive lion population in recent years, with nearly 500 lions registered across various facilities including zoos, breeding farms, petting cafes, and private residences.