UPDATE May 2, 10:48 – MTPA sends team to investigate lion sighting

Simphiwe Shungube, spokesperson for the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA), stated that in response to the lion sighting reports, a team equipped with tracking dogs has been sent to the area.

“The team will investigate the tracks and trace them,” he explained.

Shungube also urged the public to report any sightings of the lion immediately to Louw Steyn at 083 626 6792

May 2, 10:24 – Possible lion sighting near Ermelo raises concern among locals

Unconfirmed reports of a lion spotted in the Ermelo area have raised alarm among local farmers and residents.

The sighting is quite unusual, as lions are not typically found in this region.

According to a voice note Highvelder received, allegedly from local farmers in the Davel and Ermelo area, tracks believed to belong to a lion were found in the direction of Ermelo, originating from the Tafelkop area.

The tracks were reportedly discovered shortly after recent rainfall, which made them easier to spot in the terrain.

In the voice note its said that Mpumalanga Parks and Tourism Agency (MPTA) officials from Nelspruit have been dispatched to investigate the situation.

Residents and farmers are asked to remain vigilant and report any further signs or sightings to local law enforcement or conservation authorities.

This is a developing story.

Highvelder spoke to Simphiwe Shungube, media spokesperson from the MTPA who are currently trying to confirm the reports.

The newspaper will update readers when more information is available.