Lion Dies After Transfer from Gagik Tsarukyan’s Residence, Other Animals Face Neglect
Yerevan, July 9 – One of the lions transferred from the residence of businessman and politician Gagik Tsarukyan to the Yerevan Zoo has died, and serious concerns are being raised about the condition of other animals. The Yerevan Zoo, entrusted with the care of these animals, is redirecting all inquiries regarding their welfare to the Yerevan City Hall, according to a report by Pastinfo.
The incident follows a raid on Tsarukyan’s property, during which several animals, including lions, were sedated and moved to the zoo. According to Narine Kirakosyan, an animal rights activist, the sedation process was mishandled, with zoo employees allegedly failing to properly assess the animals’ condition or use appropriate dosages and respiratory tubes during the transfer. This alleged negligence is believed to be a contributing factor to the lion’s death.
Questions of Accountability and Animal Welfare
Pastinfo previously reported that the deceased lion did not wake up after being sedated. Today, additional information suggests that other animals are now suffering from hunger. When Pastinfo contacted the Yerevan Zoo for clarification on the feeding schedule of the transferred animals, a spokesperson stated that while there was no confirmed evidence of animals not being fed, and some animals are fed twice a day, all specific questions regarding the animals from Tsarukyan’s residence must be directed to the Yerevan City Hall. City Hall, in turn, declined to answer verbal questions, requesting a written inquiry, a process that can take up to 30 days.
This bureaucratic maze has exacerbated fears for the well-being of the remaining animals. Kirakosyan had previously warned that many animals belonging to Tsarukyan’s family were starving due to the actions of law enforcement. Her report on July 8, 2026, at 11:45 AM, stated that zoo gates were sealed, and police were preventing caretakers from entering the premises to water plants and feed numerous birds, fish, and 12 purebred sports horses (Arabian, English breeds), as well as 9 Nile crocodiles.
Legal and Ethical Implications
The situation has drawn criticism from legal experts and animal rights activists. They emphasize that in a legal state, oversight should be preventive, consistent, and equal for all, regardless of personal influence or public position. The lack of transparency and clear accountability from both the zoo and City Hall is alarming. The public and animal welfare organizations are demanding immediate action and a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the lion’s death and the alleged neglect of other animals.
The incident raises broader questions about the procedures for seizing and transferring animals, especially in high-profile cases. The need for clear protocols and immediate, responsible care for seized animals is paramount to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The community awaits a comprehensive response from the authorities and concrete steps to ensure the safety and well-being of all animals under their care.
Source: https://www.pastinfo.am/hy/news/2026/07/08/74745748585800/1974268
