Bangkok: Thai authorities are racing to rescue five emaciated animals-two lions and three bears-found abandoned without food or water at a casino near the Cambodian border.

According to Thai News Agency, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) launched the mission Tuesday after being alerted by Royal Thai Marines. The animals, identified as a male and female lion, two Asiatic black bears, and a Malayan sun bear, were described as being in “critical” condition with visible ribs.

Veterinarians spent the morning stabilizing the animals with fluids and nutrients, as they were initially too weak to be sedated for transport. If cleared by the medical team, the lions will be moved to a sanctuary in Ratchaburi, while the bears will be sent to Chonburi.

The relocation is expected to be completed by early Wednesday morning, with long-term rehabilitation teams standing by at both facilities.