Lahore: An 11-month-old pet lion escaped from a residential farmhouse in Lahore and attacked a woman and her two children on a busy street, triggering panic across the neighbourhood.
A CCTV footage of the big cat leaping over a wall and chasing the victims, went viral on social media. As per reports, the woman and the children were seriously injured.
Have a look at the CCTV footage here:
The terrifying incident took place on Thursday night (July 3). However, the police confirmed on Friday (July 4) that the lion clawed at the faces and arms of the two children, aged 5 and 7, after knocking their mother to the ground. All three were taken to the hospital, but their injuries weren't life-threatening.
A police report cited the children’s father, who alleged that the lion's owners stood by "amused" as the animal attacked. "The suspects fled from the spot, taking the lion with them," the Lahore police told AFP. They were arrested within 12 hours of the incident.
The lion was later confiscated and transferred to a wildlife park. Officials at the facility confirmed that the animal is in good health. Police said three men were arrested in connection with the case.
Rising Trend of Exotic Pets Sparks Concern
Keeping lions and other exotic animals has long been a symbol of status and power in Punjab, Pakistan’s most populous province. The incident reignited concerns over private ownership of wildlife animals.
In December 2024, another lion escaped from a home in Lahore and was shot dead by a security guard after roaming freely through the neighbourhood. That case prompted the Punjab government to tighten the regulations.
As per the new laws, owners are now required to obtain proper licences for big cats, which are now banned from being kept in residential areas. Breeding and sales are also regulated under the updated legal framework.
