A professional hunter was called on to shoot a lion, believed to have escaped from Mkhuze Falls Private Game Reserve over the weekend, last night (June 9).

This was confirmed by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife spokesperson Musa Mntambo, who said a destruction permit was issued by the organisation on Monday (June 8).

According to Zululand Observer, witness reports indicated the lion was roaming the R66 between Nongoma and Pongola on Sunday evening (June 7).

Mntambo said the animal had made its way to Langwane, which is part of Mpilo Private Game Reserve.

“The lion was euthanised at around 20:00. For now, it’s unclear whether the lion caused any damage as no reports have come in as yet,” he said.

“From Sunday, when we became aware of its escape, we tried to dart it using the services of a vet, but it [was] elusive and hiding next to Mpilo Game Reserve,” explained Mntambo.

“When darting failed, we employed the services of a professional hunter who destroyed it.

“Ezemvelo is the only institution legally permitted to issue destruction permits. All private game reserves apply for such permits from us.”

Mntambo explained that darting – carried out by vets – incurs huge costs, which mount up when a vet has to be on standby for darting during the search for an animal.