The Democratic Alliance (DA) has submitted parliamentary questions to KwaZulu-Natal’s Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) following allegations that two lions were poisoned near Glückstadt.

The DA was alerted to the matter by Lion Exposé, which reported that one of the lions was allegedly poisoned and that parts of the animal were subsequently sold within the local community.

The status of the second lion remains unconfirmed, although poisoning is suspected.

DA MPL Hannah Lidgett said the allegations raised serious questions about where the lions came from and how they ended up in the Glückstadt area.

Previous lion sightings raise questions

There have been numerous reports over the past several years of escaped lions being spotted in and around the area.

In previous incidents, lions believed to have escaped from an unknown location were reported roaming near Glückstadt. Lidgett said that, as far as the DA was aware, the origin of those animals had never been publicly established.

There are also private game reserves in the broader region.

Lidgett said the latest allegations could point to a wider concern about where lions were coming from, how they were ending up outside protected areas and whether wildlife movements in the area were being properly monitored.

DA seeks answers from EDTEA

The DA has asked EDTEA for clarity on the latest incident, including the alleged involvement of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (EKZNW) following reports that lion parts were being sold.

The parliamentary questions also seek confirmation of the origin and ownership of the lions, whether poisoning has been established, whether any lion remains or body parts were recovered and whether a criminal investigation is under way.

Authorities urged to establish what happened

Lidgett said authorities needed to establish how the lions came to be outside a protected area, the circumstances surrounding their deaths and whether any criminal activity took place involving their remains.

“Residents have a right to know whether authorities are properly monitoring wildlife in their communities, whether potential risks are being addressed and whether those responsible for any illegal activity will be held accountable,” Lidgett said.

She said the DA would continue using its oversight role within the KZN Government of Provincial Unity to seek answers and ensure that the province’s wildlife was properly protected.

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