A viral video depicting a tourist driving a Bentley in Pattaya City, Thailand, with a lion cub in the back seat has ignited a wave of controversy and prompted officials to launch an investigation. The footage, shared on social media platforms, shows the luxury convertible moving through Soi Phratamnak 5 in Bang Lamung district, raising concerns about the safety and legality of owning exotic animals.
Exotic animals, particularly lions and tigers, are often perceived as status symbols and are kept as pets by individuals in various countries. However, the video in question has triggered public outrage, with many expressing concerns about the well-being of the lion cub and the potential danger it poses to public safety.
The lion cub, identified as a white lion and estimated to be around 4-5 months old, was seen wearing a collar in the video. According to reports, the pet owner, identified as Sawangjit Kosoongnern, was legally permitted to keep the lion in Ratchaburi province. However, taking the lion to a different location without proper approval is a violation of wildlife conservation laws.
Atthaphon Charoenchansa, the chief of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, stated, “Therefore, Sawangjit did violate laws concerning the taking of a wild animal out in public and moving its location without prior permission.” The owner could face legal consequences, including a prison term of up to six months and/or a maximum fine of 50,000 baht (US$1,400).
Authorities are currently searching for the driver seen in the video, identified as Sawangjit’s friend from India. The investigation will focus on potential violations of animal welfare and public safety regulations.
The video has sparked a broader conversation on social media, with many users condemning the incident as animal cruelty and emphasizing the inherent risks associated with wild animals being kept in urban environments. While owning exotic animals such as lions is legal in Thailand, there are regulations in place, including the requirement for registration under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
This incident follows a recent trend of viral videos showcasing exotic pets in unconventional settings, raising questions about the ethical treatment of such animals and the need for stricter enforcement of wildlife conservation laws. As the investigation unfolds, the public awaits updates on the fate of the lion cub and the potential legal repercussions for those involved.
Sources By Agencies
