A lion at Egypt’s Fayoum Zoo fatally attacked its longtime keeper, Saeed Jaber Ali, in a horrific incident that has raised fresh concerns over safety protocols in Egyptian zoos.
Ali, known as “Uncle Saeed,” had cared for the lion for years.
The tragedy occurred on Friday while he was attempting to secure the cage after feeding the animal.
Reports indicate that a stuck chain caused him to fall inside, allowing the lion to pounce.
Eyewitnesses tried intervening by throwing stones and bricks at the lion, but it refused to let go.
Police later shot the animal, but Ali had already suffered fatal injuries and died shortly after being rushed to Fayoum General Hospital.

Following an investigation, authorities approved Ali’s burial, while the zoo disposed of the lion’s carcass in a designated sanitary landfill.
In a statement, zoo officials mourned Ali’s death, calling him a “martyr” and confirming that the accident happened as he was performing his duties.
The incident has reignited debates over poor conditions in Egyptian zoos, which have faced repeated criticism for inadequate safety measures, cramped enclosures, and substandard animal welfare.
Officials say they are now reviewing security protocols to prevent similar tragedies.