An aquarium worker has been sacked after being filmed kicking a sea lion.
Bosses have been forced to apologise after the video emerged.
In the video, he made physical contact with the animal on more than one occasion.
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According to the aquarium, it has been closed for “rectification” after the horrific actions of the man came to light.
The sea lion had been performing as part of a show for visitors before it was hurt yesterday (21 May).
Today, (22 May), the aquarium released a statement and addressed what had happened, as reported by Need To Know.
They condemned the man’s actions, and highlighted that they “firmly oppose” any of their employees from harming the animals.
“Regarding a netizens report that an aquarium employee abused a sea lion, after investigation, it was found that after the sea lion performance at the venue the trainer kicked the sea lion.
“As shown in the video due to the attack of the sea lion during the training process, which caused serious social impact,” the Jinyicheng Aquarium, based in Zhongyuan, Zhengzhou, China, said.
“The venue attaches great importance to this matter.
“In terms of animal protection, the venue’s attitude and position are very clear, that is, it firmly opposes and prohibits any employee of the company from abusing animals.
“At present, the aquarium has terminated the labour contract with the employee and suspended business for rectification.
“We deeply apologize for the inconvenience and impact caused to our customers and society.
“The venue will announce the results of the handling of this incident to the public at any time and accept everyone’s supervision.”
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