Thai woman risks jail for pet lion cub's Bentley ride
The Thai National Parks Department is initiating a probe into a foreign man who was observed cruising the streets of Pattaya in a Bentley, accompanied by what seems to be a lion cub in the rear seat. The incident came to light from a viral TikTok video leading to accusations of animal cruelty and endangering public safety. Let us learn more.
What police said
While the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation noted that Sawangjit Kosoongnern, a Thai woman, was legally permitted to keep the lion in Ratchaburi province, she had not obtained approval to transfer it to Chonburi province, where the cub was spotted with her friend. According to Atthaphon Charoenchansa, the department's chief, Kosoongnern violated laws by relocating the wild animal without prior permission.
Possible incarceration
She could potentially face up to six months in prison and/or a fine of 50,000 baht ($1,400). Police are investigating the incident, and it was revealed that the driver of the Bentley was Kosoongnern's friend from India. While some criticized the driver as an "attention seeker," officials emphasized the potential danger with wild animals, and proper precautions must be taken to ensure public safety.
Exotic animal legal
Owning exotic animals like lions is legal in Thailand, but they must be registered under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Lion ownership surged in popularity among locals and expats recenty, local media reported. In March 2023, authorities interrogated a Chinese citizen whose white lion cub escaped, causing turmoil among residents in a Pattaya housing estate.
