Residents in Dangshan County, East China's Anhui Province, received an unexpected sight on last Friday when a lion was spotted running along a roadside and through a greenbelt area, according to a video clip circulating online. Photo: web

Residents in Dangshan County, East China's Anhui Province, received an unexpected sight on last Friday when a lion was spotted running along a roadside and through a greenbelt area, according to a video clip circulating online.

In another similar video, a bystander said that he left the area quickly after spotting the lion, worried it could pose a danger if it remained loose.

Local authorities said the lion was quickly recaptured and returned to its handler. The area has since been secured.

The Forestry Administration of the Suzhou city said that the animal belonged to a visiting circus troupe and it had escaped, and it confirmed no injuries were reported. The circus has been ordered to suspend performances for rectification, and relevant investigations and handling procedures are proceeding in an orderly manner.