As per the officials, the lion ripped its claws into the little girl’s face during the children’s show in southern Russia, after which she has been hospitalised, AFP reported.
The Investigative Committee which is probing the accident that took place at a show in Uspenskoye village in Krasnodar region on Sunday said that the girl is being treated for her injuries.
Videos of the incident captured by the spectators have been shared on YouTube where the beast held by its tamer can be seen pouncing on the child suddenly. The Video footage also showed only loose netting protecting the audience. The images also showed the girl standing near the ring, apparently with her back to the lioness.
The Investigative Committee launched a probe into safety breaches at a performance intended for young children, and detained its director, who could face up to six years in prison. As per a Russian news agency, the lion did not bite the girl but lashed her with its paw.
Such attacks are a regular occurrence in Russia, where acts using wild animals remain common and numerous poorly regulated circuses travel the provinces, AFP reported.