8-year-old child loses hand in Lahore lion attack; owner arrested

LAHORE: Another disturbing incident involving a pet lion has surfaced in Lahore, where an eight-year-old boy lost his arm after being attacked at a private breeding farm in Sabzazar.

Police have arrested the accused and expanded legal action under multiple laws.

According to police, the incident took place at a breeding farm in Sabzazar. The victim, identified as eight-year-old Wajid Ali, went near the lions while playing when the attack occurred. Officials said the lion chewed off the child’s arm due to improper enclosure arrangements and negligence by the owners.

The DIG (operations) took immediate notice of the incident and ordered strict legal action. Police said the lion’s owners initially attempted to hide the matter from authorities. Despite these efforts, police acted swiftly, arrested the accused, and took control of the situation.

The injured child was rushed to a hospital, where doctors were forced to place him on life-support equipment. The DIG’s spokesperson said initially the doctors were told the child’s hand was stuck into a machine, causing the injury.

Due to the severity of the injuries, doctors amputated and separated the child’s arm to save his life. Later, the child was transferred to Ganga Ram Hospital for further medical care.

A five-member medical board has been constituted for the child’s treatment. The board includes the head of surgery, two senior professors, the director of emergency, and the head nurse. Medical Superintendent Dr Arif Iftikhar said the child had already undergone surgery at a private hospital and that his condition is currently stable. He assured that the child will be provided with the best possible medical facilities.

READ MORE: Man arrested for keeping lion without license

Police confirmed that a case has been registered, including provisions of the Wildlife Act and other relevant sections. After the victim’s family reportedly avoided pursuing legal action, police themselves became the complainant in the case. Police sources added that the accused attempted to settle the matter by offering financial assistance to the family, but the investigation continues.

Authorities stated that the incident occurred due to improper handling of the lions and clear negligence by the owners. One person has been arrested so far, and further legal action is underway. Officials reiterated that keeping dangerous wild animals without proper safeguards will not be tolerated.