Two lions break free of container at Changi Airport, sedated and secured

SINGAPORE — Two lions that were part of a shipment on transit via Singapore to an overseas facility broke free of a container at Changi Airport on Sunday (12 December).

At one point, a lion lay atop its cage before the big cats were eventually shot with a tranquilliser gun, according to media reports.

Mandai Wildlife Group’s (MWG) animal care and veterinary teams were called in to assist, and all the carnivores in the shipment were transported to an animal quarantine facility in Mandai. "The lions are being monitored as they recover from the anaesthesia," said a spokesperson.

MWG added that the lions had to be sedated in order to be safely transported. "They will remain in our care for the time being and we remain in close contact with SIA on the matter," said its spokesperson.

MWG operates Singapore’s only wildlife facility that is equipped to look after large carnivores. It is not known where the lions are from or where they were headed.

In response to queries from Yahoo News Singapore, a Singapore Airlines (SIA) spokesperson said the lions ​remained secured by the safety netting that was around the container during the entire time.

"There was no disruption to SIA’s operations as a result of the incident," said the spokesperson.

Updated statements

In an updated statement, the MWG spokesperson said all the lions have recovered well from anaesthesia.

"Our veterinary and quarantine teams are closely monitoring the animals, making sure they are comfortable. Mandai Wildlife Group’s focus is to assist SIA in this incident and ensure the lions’ welfare by providing the necessary veterinary and animal care," said the spokesperson.

MWG is providing advice to SIA on the appropriate steps to be taken to ensure the safe passage of the lions before they continue their journey, the spokesperson added.

In a separate statement, the SIA spokesperson thanked MWG for its help and professional advice. "We are unable to comment further on this matter due to commercial sensitivity and confidentiality reasons.”

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