Lion Attack at Egypt’s Fayoum Zoo Claims Keeper’s Life, Leading to Temporary Closure

Watan-The Egyptian Public Prosecution, in coordination with the Governor of Fayoum, has decided to temporarily close the governorate’s zoo pending investigations into the death of guard Jaber Ali (47), who was killed by a lion inside its cage while feeding the predators. The incident nearly led to a disaster in the zoo after the lion escaped from its cage and attempted to attack visitors, but the zoo’s guards managed to control it before further harm occurred.

The horrifying incident took place last Tuesday when the guard stumbled while trying to close the cage door, giving the lion an opportunity to suddenly pounce on him, leaving him lifeless. Subsequently, the lion tried to attack zoo visitors, causing panic among those present, before guards and on-site security intervened to control it, after it had injured two visitors at Fayoum Zoo.

As a result, the concerned authorities, in coordination with the Public Prosecution, decided to open a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances of the incident. Initial investigations revealed that the incident was due to human error resulting from failure to take necessary precautions when dealing with predators, in addition to weak security and safety measures within the zoo, especially in areas housing these animals.

Officials issued a decision to temporarily close the entire zoo until investigations are completed, with surveillance camera recordings at the site being reviewed, and a comprehensive assessment of safety and security standards to be conducted before reopening to the public, to ensure the safety of workers and visitors.

The decision also included suspending all activities within Fayoum Zoo, including feeding the animals and environmental awareness campaigns, until investigations are concluded and necessary measures are taken to enhance protection procedures and develop work mechanisms within the zoo.