Starving lions and bears rescued from abandoned Thai-Cambodia border casino
Thai marines have rescued five starving wild animals from an abandoned casino on the Cambodian border. The creatures—two lions, two Asiatic black bears, and one sun bear—were found in rusted cages, severely malnourished and dehydrated. Their discovery has reignited concerns over the welfare of exotic animals kept at border casinos.
The animals were located at the Thmor Da Casino, a once-bustling complex operating in a legal grey area. The site had long attracted Thai gamblers, drawn by Cambodia’s relaxed gambling laws. But its remote location and informal autonomy also made it a strategic point during regional tensions. Cambodian forces previously used the casino as a military position amid border disputes with Thailand.
When conflict escalated, casino staff fled, leaving the animals behind. Veterinarians later tranquilised and transported them for emergency care. The two lions were taken to the Wildtier-Zuchtstation Khao Son breeding facility in Thailand’s Ratchaburi Province, arriving in the early hours of December 25, 2025. The bears were sent to another Thai facility for rehabilitation. Officials confirmed all five animals were expected to recover fully. The creatures had likely been kept as tourist attractions before the casino’s abrupt closure.
The rescue highlights ongoing issues with exotic animals housed in border casinos. Authorities have not yet announced further investigations or policy changes. For now, the animals remain under veterinary supervision in Thailand.
