Phuket —
Officers from Chalong Police Station conducted an inspection of Lion Cafe in Phuket following widespread social media reports claiming a lion had attacked a Chinese tourist. Authorities confirmed that the establishment operates legally and that its animals are properly licensed and vaccinated.
At 4:00 p.m., Pol. Col. Surasak Jaidee, Superintendent of Chalong Police Station, led an operational team to the café on Luang Por Chuang Road, Chalong Subdistrict, after images circulated online suggesting a recent incident involving a lion. The reports sparked public concern and raised questions about tourist safety in the province.
During the inspection, police verified that the business holds valid operating permits. Two lions were found on the premises, both with complete ownership documentation and vaccination records certified by Happy Paw Animal Hospital. The vaccinations included rabies and tetanus, administered according to schedule.
Investigators determined that the viral images were not current. The café’s manager clarified that the photos dated back to December 2025 and did not reflect present circumstances. No irregularities or safety issues were observed during the inspection.
To further reassure the public, police also visited Lion Land Phuket, another wildlife attraction in Chalong. That venue was likewise found to have proper licensing, including permits for operating a health-risk business issued by the local municipality. All lions there were documented with valid ownership papers.
