Khaberni - A photoshoot inside the National Circus in the Al-Agouza area of Giza Governorate in Egypt turned into a tragic incident, after a little girl was attacked by a lion while taking commemorative photos.
According to local media, a young lion was rented by a photographer not associated with the Ministry of Culture, intended to take pictures with visitors after one of the shows inside the National Circus.
During the photoshoot, the lion suddenly attacked a three-year-old girl, causing her facial injuries that urgently required her transfer to Al-Agouza Hospital, where she received several stitches.
Eyewitnesses reported that the photographer was offering commemorative photography services with the lion in exchange for money repeatedly, before the incident that caused astonishment inside the venue.
Authorities in Giza commenced investigations into the incident, including examining the circumstances of using the animal outside the official framework, and interrogating various parties involved, including the lion trainer Luba El-Sweet.
The management of the National Circus also decided to terminate the contract with the photographer and refer him for investigation.
For its part, the Ministry of Culture confirmed its monitoring of the girl's health condition and its commitment to covering all aspects of treatment, with a readiness to transfer her to any other medical facility if needed, in addition to taking necessary legal measures.
In a related context, it was decided to appoint a new management for the National Circus in Al-Agouza, as part of steps aimed at reorganizing and enhancing safety standards inside the institution following the incident.
