China game shop slammed for using live hamsters in claw machine

China Game Shop Slammed for Live Hamsters in Claw Machines

A game centre in Shenzhen, China, has come under fire after using live hamsters as prizes in its claw machines. The venue, located in a shopping centre in the city's Guangdong province, faced backlash after images and videos surfaced of the animals cowering in fear inside the machines. The incident occurred during the Spring Festival holiday in February, when no one was available to care for the animals. Online complaints led to accusations of animal abuse, with many calling for stricter animal protection laws in the region. The shop has since stopped using live animals and reverted to traditional plush prizes. This case underscores the importance of addressing animal welfare concerns in public spaces to prevent similar incidents in the future.