Pakistani man critically injured in lion attack as TikTok stunt goes wrong
Victim Muhammad Azeem reportedly entered lion's enclosure without owner's permission to film a viral video
PTC Web Desk: A TikTok video attempt took a disastrous turn when a lion attacked a man at a breeding farm in Punjab province, Pakistan. Victim Muhammad Azeem reportedly entered the lion's enclosure without the owner's permission to film a viral video. As he moved closer to the animal, the lion attacked, causing severe injuries to Azeem's head, face, and arms, according to the police.
The farm owner, alerted by Azeem's cries, intervened and rushed him to a hospital. His condition is stated to be critical. The authorities have initiated legal action against the farm owner, including revocation of the facility's breeding license.
Senior Pakistani minister Marriyum Aurangzeb emphasised recent steps to regulate the keeping of big cats, such as lions, cheetahs, tigers, pumas, and jaguars. "New legislation mandates that these animals be housed outside city limits, with strict penalties for violations, including bans on showcasing them on TikTok or other platforms," she stated.
The Punjab Chief Minister’s cabinet recently included big cats in Schedule II of the Wildlife Act of 1974, establishing minimum care standards and legal regulations for their possession.