'Lion King' Truck Version? ... Lion Caught Jumping Through Roof in South Africa
by Bang Jeil
Published 24 Oct.2025 08:43(KST)
After Sedation Wore Off During Transport, Lion Climbed onto Truck Roof
Sustained Minor Injuries but Remained in Good Health
A moment was captured on a road in South Africa when a lion broke through the roof hatch of a truck and soared toward temporary freedom. On the 23rd (local time), British media outlet Daily Mail and other foreign news agencies reported that a lion being transported in South Africa recently escaped from a truck and ran toward the roadside.
The sudden escape left nearby residents and drivers in shock and fear. Fortunately, the lion remained relatively calm due to tranquilizers administered when it was loaded onto the truck. The lion, which was privately owned and being transferred to a new owner, managed to climb onto the top of the truck and jump onto the road because the sedative had not fully taken effect.
Police and veterinarian Dr. Anton Nel rushed to the scene to track the lion. Although the lion hid in nearby grass, those in the area remained tense. The lion, which had been wandering along the road, was eventually found lying calmly in the shade of the grass, likely as the sedative took effect, and was then moved back onto the truck. Dr. Nel stated that the lion suffered minor injuries, such as split claws, but was otherwise in good health. The lion has since been safely relocated to a wildlife breeding facility in North West Province, South Africa. Authorities are currently investigating whether there were any violations of safety regulations, such as improper locking procedures.
Meanwhile, it is estimated that between 8,000 and 12,000 lions are bred on approximately 350 farms across South Africa. The breeding of lions and other wildlife has become a major industry in the country. Some of these lions are reduced to hunting targets for the entertainment of tourists, slaughtered for their bones and other parts to be sold as medicinal materials, or used as props for tourist photos. In particular, the industrialized practice of "trophy hunting"-killing animals for sport-remains widespread in South Africa and several other African countries, despite criticism from the public. The number of wild lions living in South Africa is estimated to be around 3,500.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.