A five-year-old boy has been killed in a horrifying lioness attack in India after being snatched from his grandfather's arms during a late-night walk. The youngster was nabbed and mauled to death on Tuesday evening in Chaturi village, Amreli district, near the Gir mountain range. The area is home to the last Asiatic lions, though it is not clear whether it was one of these animals that grabbed the child.
Attack Details
The child, identified as Jian, had been out walking with his grandfather to buy milk when a lioness suddenly lunged out of nowhere and carried him into the forest. Villagers armed with sticks rushed to help but were unable to save the boy, despite chasing the predator.
Jian's body was found covered in blood nearly a kilometre from where he was taken by the lion. Forest officials confirmed that five lions were captured in an overnight operation and that the remains of Jian were found in the vomit of one of the animals. Forensic tests of the remains have since been ordered.
Third Attack in a Month
This marks the third lion attack in the Amreli district in the past month, according to local authorities. Assistant Conservator of Forests Kapil Bhatia said a large-scale operation was launched immediately after the attack, with tranquilizers used to confine the lions. Despite the capture of five lions after the attack, locals are infuriated by the frequency of lion-related deaths.
Residents have called on officials to introduce safety measures to better prevent lion attacks. Officials have responded by urging villagers to avoid walking alone after dark and to carry sticks or torches for protection.
Community in Shock
The incident has left Chaturi in shock, with families fearful of further attacks as lion sightings around the settlement continue to rise. Experts advise that when encountering a lion, one should never run. The advice reads: 'Don't Run. Ever. Just don't. It's the trickiest point to implement but when out in the wilds of Africa you must never, ever run. Look at the animal's tail. When a lion is angry or feeling threatened it will sweep its tail from side to side. If it's hunting, it will keep its tail stiff and twitch it from time to time. If the lion is actively hunting you, you will see stalking indications, the lowering of the head. Stand still, even if the lion charges you do not run. This can be extremely intimidating.'
