Thailand Lion Rescue Turns Deadly: Tiger Cub Dies in Transport
Chanthaburi, Thailand—A raid on a residence in Moo 11, Khlong Nararat sub-district, uncovered illegal wildlife possession, resulting in the rescue of a lion and the death of a tiger cub. The operation, conducted on February 26, 2025, by officers from the Central Investigation Bureau, followed intelligence reports regarding the illegal transport of a tiger cub to the property, occupied by Chinese nationals.
Armed with a court warrant, authorities discovered a three-year-old lion, named Simba, and a tiger cub, estimated to be six to eight months old. Tragically, during transport, the tiger cub escaped its cage, leaping from the moving vehicle into oncoming traffic. The resulting collision was fatal. A subsequent examination by police and wildlife officials from the Khlong Khrueawai Wildlife Sanctuary revealed a broken left hind leg and severe internal organ damage.
The resident, a Chinese national identified as Mr. An Yi, confessed to caring for both animals. He now faces charges for illegal possession of protected wildlife without permits, specifically violating Section 19 regarding tiger ownership and failing to register the animals.
On February 28, 2025, Mr. Nawi Chang Phirom, head of the Wildlife and Plant Crime Suppression Operation Unit (“Hawk’s Nest”) within the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, explained that the tiger cub’s cage, secured with latches on two sides and covered with a tarpaulin, was compromised by strong winds that dislodged the covering and loosened the latches. The cub then gnawed through its restraints, leading to its escape and death.
Simba, due to his size, was initially kept under close supervision at the residence. He has since been transferred to a licensed lion farm in Bang Suan, Bang Khla district, Chachoengsao province, for appropriate care. A veterinary examination revealed an implanted microchip, confirming a valid permit; however, the location where Simba was found differed from the permit’s registered address, raising legal concerns.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in combating illegal wildlife trade. The tiger cub’s death tragically underscores the vulnerability of these animals to human greed and negligence. Authorities are investigating potential links between the Chinese nationals and broader international wildlife trafficking networks, aiming to uncover the circumstances surrounding the animals' presence at the residence and the larger illegal wildlife trade in the region. Legal proceedings against Mr. Yi are pending.
