Three lions killed, heads, paws removed

Police in Tzaneen launched a manhunt for an unknown number of suspects who allegedly killed and removed the heads and paws of three lions at a lodge outside the town in the early hours of yesterday (Wednesday).

By this morning (Thursday) no arrests had been made yet Provincial Police Spokesperson Moatshe Ngoepe informed.
It is alleged that the perpetrators cut the fence of a lion cage at the Letaba River Lodge and killed three male lions. “The lions’ paws and heads were removed. The loss to the lodge is estimated at R900 000,” Ngoepe said, adding that it is not yet clear how the lions were killed before the body parts were removed. Allegations of poisoning forms part of the investigation.
Police are investigating cases of unlawful hunting and hunting without a permit of protected animals.
Anyone with information can contact the nearest Police station, the crime stop call centre on 08600 10111 or the investigating officer Jabulani Ngobeni on 082 451 7169.

Story: RC Myburgh
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Featured photo: One of three lions killed, decapitated and their paws removed at Letaba River Lodge yesterday (Wednesday).  (Photo: Supplied)