A lioness seized from the residence of Armenian businessman Gagik Tsarukyan has died during relocation after being sedated, prompting scrutiny over the circumstances surrounding the animal’s death.
According to the zoo, the lioness never regained consciousness after being sedated. Officials said a necropsy found multiple health problems, including damage to the spleen, liver, lungs and heart, as well as obesity and other age-related conditions, arguing these were the cause of death.
The explanation has drawn criticism from some observers, who argue authorities are focusing on the lioness’s preexisting medical conditions rather than addressing whether proper veterinary protocols were followed during the transfer and sedation.
In response to the growing scrutiny, Armenia’s Investigative Committee said it will examine the circumstances surrounding the lioness’s death following the sedation procedure.
The lioness was among the animals seized from Tsarukyan’s residence. Authorities had previously confiscated 190 taxidermied animals and birds, along with three lions and one tiger, from the property.
