This as the Free State Department of Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (Destea) that led the closure of the zoo, informed the Carte Blanche team via a statement that the matter is far from over. This was further echoed by the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital in their update on the conditions of the animals during their assessments. 

The hospital indicated they would continue to care for the remaining buffaloes until the matter between the parties was finalised. In tonight’s episode of Carte Blanche, the details surrounding the mammoth rescue mission and successful relocation of the starving animals to various sanctuaries and organisations countrywide will be revealed in detail. 

OFM News spoke to Carte Blanche presenter Masa Kekana, who provided a preview of their investigation and what it yielded.

 
Chief Director for Environmental Management at the Destea, Nozi Nkoe, has provided some clarity on the legal ramifications of the situation at the zoo, telling OFM News “they are in contravention of environmental law and legislation and currently have no right to keep wildlife. This is deemed as but one of the legal action(s) because we are the Green Scorpions responsible for wildlife protection”. She wouldn’t comment on the possibility of a court bid on the matter.

Earlier this week Nkoe expressed the department’s satisfaction with the relocation of all the animals aside from the buffaloes. She explains the buffaloes are yet to find a new home because they are still undergoing extensive testing for illnesses like Tuberculosis and Bovine Brucellosis by veterinary doctors at the Gauteng-based hospital. 

Nkoe stresses the department is continuing to provide support to the animal sanctuaries that are housing the rescues and will closely monitor their development over time.

The SPCA, which formed part of the mission, has indicated the animals have been accommodated by organisations like the Love Lions Alive Project, Four Paws South Africa’s Lionsrock Sanctuary and Humane Society International Africa, amongst many others. 

The Mangaung Metro is yet to respond to questions posed on the matter.

OFM News