The North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) has assured the public that it has recaptured a lion that escaped from a trailer on Monday, 20 October along the R49 road between Lichtenburg and Zeerust.
According to the department, the lion was being transported from the Free State to Nietverdiend, near Zeerust.
A video of the lion’s escape circulated on social media, causing panic but the department guaranteed that the situation is under control, adding that investigations surrounding the circumstances of the incident will be investigated.
“Preliminary investigations suggest there may be an infringement on the conditions of the transport permit.
The full investigation will assess whether the owner complied with all relevant legislation, including those indicated in South African National Standards (SANS) 1884-3, which govern the transportation, handling and welfare of carnivores.
This entails compliance with specific legal and safety specifications for cage and vehicle design, animal handling and general welfare as outlined in the national guidelines,” the department explained through a statement.
Furthermore, the department urged game farmers and wildlife transporters to apply for all necessary permits when transporting animals, and to adhere to permit conditions and safety protocols during transit.
The department warned that action will be taken against those who do not comply with the law.
