A terrifying moment was caught on camera, as a lion broke out of a metal cage at a circus in China, and escaped into the audience section, sparking a stampede at the location. The incident comes at a time when China has received flak for its animal rights abuse over incidents of ill-treatment of animals in circus and entertainment shows.
On a fateful day in Luoyang, Henan Province, families gathered at the Global Peak International Circus to watch a performance they would never forget. Little did they know, they were about to witness a terrifying incident that would leave them fleeing for their lives.
As the circus performers tried to guide two lions with sticks in a circular metal cage, spectators looked on in awe. Suddenly, the iron fence separating the stage from the audience gave way, and the two lions broke free. Chaos erupted as families scrambled to protect their children and escape the event hall.
In the video footage, the lions could be seen roaming around the fringes of the cage. Suddenly, one of the lions darts through an unlocked flap in the cage, followed by the other. Audience members reportedly fled the scene in terror, some carrying their children, triggering a stampede as the lions roamed freely.
The Facts of the Matter
For years, circuses have included lions and tigers in their performances, captivating audiences who eagerly anticipate the thrill of seeing these majestic creatures up close. Despite the risks associated with keeping wild animals in captivity, many spectators feel a sense of security knowing that trained circus staff are in control.
However, the recent incident of a lion breaking free from its enclosure and entering the audience during a circus performance in central China has shattered this illusion of safety.
Fun Day at Circus Turns into Nightmare
It was supposed to be a day of fun and entertainment for the families who attended the Global Peak International Circus in Luoyang, Henan Province.
The circus performers were in the middle of their act when suddenly, the audience was sent into a frenzy as the two lions burst through the iron fence that separated them from the spectators. Panic ensued as families scrambled to protect their loved ones from the looming danger.
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Video Shows Lions Throwing Circus Audience into Frenzy
The video footage captured the moment when the lions first roamed around the circular metal cage. One of the performers tried to control the beasts with a stick, but the lions were too restless to be tamed. One lion even jumped on a stool before making its way over to the other animal.
However, things quickly took a turn for the worse when the lion got caught, dragging the hoop along as it circled the inside of the cage. Suddenly, one of the lions darted through an unlocked flap in the cage, and the other one followed suit.
The sight of the lions on the loose sent the audience into a frenzied panic. People were seen fleeing the scene, some carrying their children, while others tried to find shelter.
Watch the Video here
Luoyang, Henan, China
Everything went wrong!
It is clear that these animals do not want to do these silly tricks. Leave the animals alone and let them live their lives in peace.
I think these lions look skinny. How are they punished now? Beating and starving?#animalcruelty pic.twitter.com/ypkV4HNx7c
— We Are Not Food (@WeAreNotFood) April 16, 2023
Lion had Wandered onto Street
Authorities were quick to respond, and the escaped lion was captured in just 15 minutes by the keepers. The lion had reportedly wandered on the streets, and fortunately, no one was injured during the ordeal.
Two #lions were recaptured & returned to lives of miserable incarceration after escaping a Chinese #circus this weekend. #Circusanimals suffer on a staggering scale. Never visit a circus that uses animals, in China or anywhere else. Visit https://t.co/i6RcpDcfJi to find out more pic.twitter.com/RfqmCx1HEE
— ADI (@AnimalDefenders) April 18, 2023
The circus has since been ordered to suspend operations and rectify any issues, while investigations into the incident continue.
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