A shocking incident at a circus in Tanta left a worker severely injured after being attacked by a wild feline during a live performance. The brutal mauling resulted in the worker’s arm being amputated due to the extensive damage.

While the reports are conflicting, with some claiming the attack was by a tiger and others stating it was a lion, the fact remains that the attack was both terrifying and life-altering for the circus worker. The exact identity of the animal involved remains unclear, but it was undoubtedly a dangerous feline that caused the horrific injuries.

While the incident caused panic among spectators, the response from circus management has sparked outrage. They seemed more focused on reassuring the audience than addressing the safety and ethical concerns surrounding the use of wild animals in performances.

Panic at the Circus; What Happened?

Dr. Mohamed El-Shebiney, the general supervisor at Tanta University Emergency Hospital, revealed that a circus assistant was attacked by a wild feline during a live show at the circus in Tanta, leading to severe injuries that ultimately required the amputation of his arm.

The worker suffered multiple deep bites from the animal, which tore through the muscles, arteries, and veins from his elbow to his hand. Due to the severity of the damage, doctors had no choice but to amputate the arm above the elbow to prevent gangrene and blood poisoning, which could have been fatal. The worker is currently stable and under medical supervision.

The incident, which occurred in front of a live audience, caused immediate panic. Spectators fled the scene in fear, proving yet again that forcing wild animals into unnatural, high-stress performances is dangerous for both humans and animals.

The Circus Manager’s Tone-Deaf Response

Anousa Kouta, the circus manager, attempted to downplay the tragedy, calling it a “technical error” caused by mismanagement among the assistants. She emphasized that no audience members were harmed and assured everyone that the circus was evacuated safely.

While she mentioned being at the hospital with the injured worker, her statement made it clear that her priority is the spectators—not the person who lost his arm.

She also confirmed that the animal would be removed from performances and sent for more training in Cairo, as if the problem is with the animal and not the exploitative nature of the circus itself.

Enough Is Enough—Ban Animals in Circuses!

This incident at the circus in Tanta is yet another reminder that using wild animals in circuses is inhumane and unsafe. These animals are often kept in poor conditions, subjected to cruel training methods, and forced into stressful environments that can lead to unpredictable and dangerous situations.

Instead of blaming a “technical error” or sending the animal away for more training, how about we address the real issue? Wild animals should NOT be forced to perform for human entertainment.

It’s time to ban animal circuses and shift towards ethical performances that don’t involve cruelty and exploitation.