This comes after a 12-year-old boy was mauled to death by lions at the game lodge yesterday morning. It is alleged that Nkalamelo Latha was accompanying one of the farm workers to the lion camp. The farm worker managed to escape without injuries. Nkananelo, however, succumbed to his injuries. Environmental Affairs spokesperson Khotso Tau says the department has indicated a number of shortcomings and are currently reviewing the facility's licence.

Free State police spokesperson, Livhuhani Hani, says no arrest has been made yet.

“We are aware that the department had visited the facility and has raised a number of issues and a new permit has been applied for. The department is conducting further investigations into the incident”. 

Tau says the correct way of keeping wild animals is critical for the safety of farm owners as well as for anyone who visit the facility. Tau mentions everyone is still shocked by the incident and that farmers and farm workers should be cautious.

Katleho Morapela/OFM News