PHALABORWA –  The rumours and reports that a pride of 10 lions have been spotted outside the Kruger National Park fence in Phalaborwa heading to Lulekani could be a hoax.

This is after reports and photos on social media started trending late Tuesday evening, declaring that local authorities and rangers confirmed the sightings and are on the lookout for the 10 lions.

The Herald spoke to Laura Mukwevho of SANParks today (August 13), who said they were not aware of the matter.

Also, Phalaborwa Natural Heritage Foundation’s director, Eugene Troskie, who has been instrumental in capturing other lions and animals which escaped from local reserves, says, “We think that is a hoax; we cannot confirm that at the moment.

“We think that maybe someone is trying to create some chaos, and we don’t know why.”

However, authorities advise people who come into contact with any dangerous animals not to approach them.