Woman Arrested for Driving with Pet Lion in Convertible Bentley

• Thai woman arrested for illegal lion joyride in Bentley.
• Unregistered lion wearing a chain; charges for possession.
• Concerns raised about cruelty; penalties include jail and fine.

In a bizarre incident in downtown Pattaya, Thailand, a woman named Sawangjit Kosoongnern was arrested by Thai police for driving with her pet lion in a convertible Bentley. The unusual outing was captured by a bystander in a video that went viral after being posted in December.

In the footage, the lion, adorned with a chain around its neck, was seen comfortably seated in the rear seat of the luxury vehicle, with Sawangjit's Sri Lankan friend behind the wheel. While videos of pets enjoying car rides are often met with amusement, this particular spectacle drew mixed reactions online, ranging from shock to amusement.

Owning a lion in Thailand is not illegal, but it must be properly registered. However, it was revealed that Sawangjit had acquired the lion illegally from an individual in Nakhon Pathom province, bypassing the necessary procedures. As a result, she now faces charges for possessing a wild animal without permission, carrying potential penalties of a year in prison and a fine of 100,000 baht.

Additionally, the seller of the lion will also be charged for transporting the animal without proper authorization. The Sri Lankan friend, who reportedly housed the lion cub in his rented villa, has left the country. He may face charges for bringing a wild animal into public places, with potential consequences of six months in jail and a 50,000 baht fine.

This incident has raised concerns about animal cruelty and public safety. Thailand currently has 224 legally owned lions, and the case highlights the importance of adhering to regulations to ensure the welfare of exotic animals and the safety of the public.

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