A disturbing video showing a lion attacking an Egyptian worker in Libya has reignited public anger over the country’s growing trend of keeping wild predators as pets. The footage, widely circulated on social media, captures the man in visible distress as the lion, released as part of a “joke,” lunges at him. The worker’s nervous smile quickly fades into pleas for help, while the farm owner films the scene, laughing and ignoring the danger.
Though the location of the incident remains unconfirmed, the video has drawn condemnation from both Libyan and Egyptian activists, highlighting a broader issue: the unchecked rise of exotic animal ownership in Libya.
A Pattern of Dangerous Encounters
The incident is not isolated. Over the past year, Libya has witnessed multiple cases of lions and tigers roaming public streets, escaping private farms, and attacking civilians. In April 2024, a tiger escaped in Misrata, causing panic as it wandered through residential areas. Months earlier, a four-year-old child was mauled to death by a lion kept on a farm in Ajdabiya.
In December 2024, a wedding in Tripoli descended into chaos when a guest brought a lion into the venue. The animal, agitated by the crowd, broke free and attacked seated guests. In another bizarre wedding stunt, a groom paraded through the city with an unrestrained tiger in the back of a pickup truck, flanked by friends and dozens of vehicles.
Tragedy struck again in Benghazi when a Sudanese worker was killed by a group of lions he had been caring for on a private farm.
Government Response and Enforcement Gaps
Following a series of such incidents, the Libyan government issued a ban in July 2024 on the ownership and public display of wild predators. Citizens were given 15 days to surrender their animals to the Ministry of Interior, which would relocate them to designated facilities. The ban also prohibited the import of exotic predators and warned of penalties for violations.
However, enforcement has been inconsistent. The lack of nationwide coordination and weak oversight has allowed the phenomenon to persist, with wild animals still appearing in urban settings and private events.
Public Backlash and Calls for Accountability
The latest video has sparked renewed calls for legal action. Activists described the incident as psychological and physical abuse, demanding that the farm owner be held accountable. Libyan commentators urged authorities to crack down on exotic pet ownership and prevent further misuse of dangerous animals.
Egyptian voices joined the chorus, calling on the Foreign Ministry to investigate and protect the rights of Egyptian workers abroad. Many emphasized that human dignity should never be trivialized or used for entertainment.
As viral clips continue to surface, the debate over Libya’s exotic pet culture intensifies. The incidents serve as stark reminders of the risks posed by wild animals in domestic settings—and the urgent need for public awareness and regulatory enforcement.
