So far, the police have not confirmed where the predator could be on the run.
The Berlin police have warned the residents of the southern parts of the Berlin city area, i.e. Kleinmachnow, Teltow and Stahnsdorwerei, about a lion-like wild animal roaming freely. Sakslaislehti reports on Asista Bild and Reuters news agency.
The Berlin police say on Twitter in the afternoon that a possible sighting of a lion has been made in South Berlin near the Brandenburg border. The police say that the area is currently being extensively investigated.
Residents and their pets have been advised to stay indoors. According to Bild, daycare centers in the area are still open, but children are not allowed outside. The town hall will also remain open, but market vendors are advised not to open their stalls.
Police spokesperson Daniel Keip tells Bild that around midnight, eyewitnesses spotted a possible lioness mauling a wild boar.
– We have video footage of it. We currently have no reason to doubt the authenticity of the video, says Keip, according to Bild.
So far, the police have not confirmed where the possible lion could have come from. At first, it was thought that the animal might be escaping from the circus. However, the police spokesperson confirms that zoos, circuses and animal shelters in the vicinity have been checked for a possible escapee.
The police have been searching the area with helicopters since last night. According to the police, hunters and veterinarians are also participating in the search. According to the police, a possible wild animal will be caught in an “animal-friendly” manner. So far, the search has not yielded results.
Finnish expert: some features lion-like
Director of animal care and protection in Korkeasaari Nina Trontti tells that it is difficult to assess for sure whether it is a lion or not.
– Some features are lion-like. The animal has round ears, is large and has a long tail, says Trontti.
However, the animal may be a large pet cat.
– I strongly doubt that it is someone’s pet that is on the run, says Trontti.