Safari World Predator Zone Shuts Down Amid Safety Probe After Zookeeper Killed by Lions

Bangkok, Thailand – Safari World, one of Asia’s largest open-air zoos, has temporarily closed its predator zone as wildlife officials launch an intensive investigation following the fatal mauling of a zookeeper by lions earlier this week. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, has cast a harsh spotlight on the park’s animal treatment and safety protocols.

Longtime zookeeper Jian Rangkarassamee, 58, was tragically killed when he exited his vehicle within the lion enclosure. An autopsy revealed multiple deep lacerations, a broken neck, and ruptured arteries. The five lions involved, reportedly led by a 10-year-old male named Trump, have since been confined for close monitoring while the big cat section remains closed for urgent repairs and safety improvements.

The Department of National Parks’ (DNP) wildlife conservation director, Chalerm Poommai, confirmed Friday that an initial inspection uncovered significant safety deficiencies, including damaged fences, inadequate warning signs, and an insufficient number of CCTV cameras. Compounding these concerns, the zoo’s operating permit, which expired last October, is still awaiting renewal.

“The zoo needs to meet safety standards to prevent such an incident from happening again,” Poommai stated, while acknowledging the inherent wild instinct of the animals. Safari World Bangkok issued a Facebook statement pledging an urgent investigation and strengthened safety measures, reiterating the critical importance of remaining inside vehicles in wild animal zones.

The park, known for allowing visitors “up close and personal” experiences with wild animals and offering lion-feeding activities, has faced past controversies, including accusations of exploiting orangutans in staged shows. In the wake of this attack, animal welfare organizations like Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) and PETA are renewing calls for more stringent controls on dangerous wildlife ownership across Thailand, where nearly 500 lions are registered in various facilities and private homes.

DNP’s wildlife protection director, Sadudee Punpugdee, emphasized that zookeepers are advised to use defensive gear and operate under a “buddy system.” Authorities plan to inspect other zoos and private lion owners nationwide to ensure compliance with safety standards, aiming to prevent further tragedies in a country that has seen at least two fatal animal attacks at parks this year.

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