The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) has confirmed that a lion which escaped from a trailer along the R49 between Lichtenburg and Zeerust on Monday has been safely captured.
The animal was being transported from the Free State Province to Nietverdiend in Ramotshere Moiloa when it reportedly broke free from the vehicle. The department assured the public that there was “no cause for alarm” and that the lion no longer poses any threat to the community or motorists in the area.
Department spokesperson Jeremiah Matebesi said an investigation has been launched to determine how the incident occurred and whether any permit conditions were violated.
“Preliminary investigations suggest there may have been an infringement of the transport permit conditions,” the department said in a statement.
“The full investigation will assess whether the owner complied with all relevant legislation, including those outlined in the South African National Standards (SANS) 1884-3, which govern the transportation, handling, and welfare of carnivores.”
The standards prescribe specific legal and safety requirements for cage and vehicle design, animal handling, and general welfare during transport.
The department said it would also verify compliance with Condition 5 of the permit, which requires holders to have public liability insurance and to be accountable for any damages caused by escaped animals. “Severe action will be taken against the permit holder if found to have violated the permit conditions,” the statement added.
DEDECT has urged all game farmers and wildlife transporters to ensure that they apply for the necessary permits and strictly adhere to safety and welfare protocols when moving wild animals.
“Compliance with these measures is crucial to ensure public safety and animal welfare during transport,” Matebesi said.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
IOL News
Get your news on the go. Download the latest IOL App for Android and IOS now.
