Woman Killed by Cheetah

12 February 2007

BRUSSELS — A 37-year-old woman was killed by a cheetah in De Olmense Zoo in Balen on Sunday after secretly stepping into the animal’s cage. It is still unclear how the woman, a regular visitor to the zoo, had gotten hold of the key to the cage.

Gaia, an animal rights organisation, once again demanded that the zoo should be shut down unless it quickly takes steps to meet the minimum requirements in animal care.

Gaia has been protesting against the zoo for years, saying it does not comply with basic safety regulations. The organisation has written several letters to the government concerning the zoo, spokesperson Ann De Greef says.

According to Gaia, the problems at the zoo are due not only to the underdeveloped infrastructure, but also the careless attitude of the staff.

Subject: Belgian news