BANGKOK — A Thai zoo has shut down its predator zone after a tragic incident in which a zookeeper was mauled to death by lions, officials confirmed on September 12, triggering renewed scrutiny over animal welfare and safety standards in the country.

The attack occurred on September 10 at Safari World, a large open-air zoo near Bangkok, when 58-year-old zookeeper Jian Rangkarassamee exited his vehicle in the lion enclosure. He was fatally attacked by a pack of lions, led by a 10-year-old male named Trump.

An autopsy revealed severe injuries, including multiple deep lacerations, a broken neck, and ruptured arteries, according to wildlife officials.

As a precaution, the zoo has closed its big cat section, and the lions have been confined to cages for observation. The zoo is currently undergoing safety repairs and infrastructure upgrades, authorities said.

During an inspection, Thailand’s Department of National Parks (DNP) found damaged fences, inadequate warning signs, and a lack of CCTV cameras, said Chalerm Poommai, the DNP’s wildlife conservation director.

“The zoo needs to meet safety standards to prevent such an incident from happening again,” he said, adding that the **natural instincts of wild animals ‘cannot be erased’.”

The zoo’s operating permit expired in October 2024 and is still pending renewal.

A Safari World representative confirmed that other areas of the zoo remain open and are “safe for visitors,” but declined to comment further.

Safari World has long been controversial for its staged animal shows, including orangutan kickboxing and elephants performing tricks. Conservationists and animal welfare groups have criticized the park for exploitation and alleged wildlife smuggling.

Indonesian officials have accused the zoo of smuggling orangutans by sea, while groups like Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) are calling for stronger wildlife regulations.

“If this incident can happen at a zoo with safety guidelines, imagine what could happen in someone’s backyard,” said Edwin Wiek, founder of WFFT.

Lion ownership remains legal in Thailand, with nearly 500 lions registered across zoos, breeding farms, private homes, and even petting cafes.

Mr Sadudee Punpugdee, the DNP’s wildlife protection director, emphasized the importance of safety protocols, saying zookeepers must work in pairs and carry defensive tools like electric batons or high-pressure hoses under a mandatory “buddy system.”

The government has pledged to inspect other zoos and private lion owners nationwide to ensure compliance with safety standards and prevent future tragedies.