Kazakh citizens search for zoo visitor who hurt a rhinoceros
Tengrinews.kz — A woman in Almaty reported that an unidentified visitor threw an object at a rhinoceros, hitting it in the eye. The Almaty Zoo has commented on the incident.
The complaint
The incident came to light after a Kazakh woman shared an emotional post on the social media platform Threads.
“Today my mother and I went to the zoo, and something happened that broke my heart. Some man (if you can even call him that) threw something — maybe a stone or another object — right into the rhinoceros’s eye. I didn’t even have time to see exactly what it was. The animal was just standing there, not bothering anyone, and he hurt it — for what reason?” she wrote.
The post gathered over 47,000 views and dozens of comments, with users expressing outrage and calling for action.
“Poor thing, it didn’t even understand why it was hurt.”“Why didn’t you confront him right away? What’s the point of posting this now?”“You could’ve called the police — this deserves punishment.”
The zoo’s response
The Almaty Zoo confirmed the incident and strongly condemned the act.
“We are deeply concerned about this situation and strongly condemn any form of cruelty or disrespect toward animals,” the zoo’s press service told Tengri Travel.
Zoo specialists immediately examined the rhinoceros after receiving the report.
“Fortunately, the animal is in satisfactory condition and its health is not at risk. No injuries, including to the eyes, were found,” the statement said.
An internal investigation is underway, and zoo officials are reviewing available video footage.
“The zoo administration has contacted law enforcement authorities. All materials have been handed over to the police to identify the offender and hold them accountable. Once identified, the visitor will be questioned, and appropriate measures will be taken in accordance with the law,” the zoo added.
The zoo also reminded visitors that signs outlining behavioral rules and legal liability for harming animals are posted throughout the premises.