German police on the hunt for lioness loose in Berlin

GERMAN authorities are searching for a lioness believed to be on the loose in the outskirts of Berlin.

A warning was issued on Thursday morning to people in Kleinmachnow, Teltow and Stahnsdorf in the edge of the city, to stay inside and take their pets indoors because of an “escaped wild animal”.

The alert was later extended to southern areas of Berlin and a message went out on an official warning app to say the animal is believed to be a lioness.

A vet and two hunters were helping with the search, which has also involved helicopters.

Police did not know whose lion it is, as neither of Berlin’s two zoos nor any circuses or animal shelters in the area are missing a lioness.

The alarm was raised after two men saw a big cat running after a wild boar, which are common in Germany, according to police spokesman Daniel Keip.

“The two gentlemen recorded a smartphone video and even experienced police officers had to confirm that it is probably a lioness,” he said, adding that there have been various reported sightings.

Police increased their presence in the Kleinmachnow area and warned people of the possible danger by loudspeaker, though there was no order to stay indoors.

Despite the alert, life appeared to be continuing as normal in the town of about 20,000 people, with people walking dogs and cycling, German news agency dpa reported.

Children’s nurseries were open but children were not being allowed to play in the gardens, the local council said.

The town hall was open, however traders at the town’s market were urged not to set up stalls.