The cubs, known as Karlos and Ivana, were confiscated by the NSPCA, and the story of their rescue and journey to recovery became a media sensation shortly after being shared by the NSPCA. 

Click on the photo to watch the video.

It soon became common knowledge that Steinman stood accused of animal cruelty, and only then was the NSPCA compelled to admit that he had been listed as the accused in the NSPCA's case for Karlos and Ivana.

Steinman and certain companies sued the NSPCA in 2019 – for the sum of over R13 million – for allegedly defaming him and causing him a loss of income.

In January 2023, after almost four years of defending the matter, Honorable Justice Snyman from the Mafikeng High Court dismissed the claim against the NSPCA and one of its inspectors, with costs.

"The NSPCA feels vindicated with this judgment, and, if anything, winning this case has only strengthened the NSPCA's spirit to fight for what is right, and continue our work to protect and stand up for animals regardless of what challenges we may face in doing so,” the National Senior Inspector, Douglas Wolhuter, Manager: Wildlife Protection Unit of the NSPCA said.

Steinman and his companies have applied for leave to appeal this decision, but a date for argument has yet to be allocated.  

Steinman still faces charges of animal cruelty in the NSPCA's case regarding the abuse of Karlos and Ivana, which is still ongoing. If Steinman is found guilty, he faces imprisonment, a fine, or both, and will have a criminal record.

The NSPCA sincerely appreciates its legal team from Marston & Taljaard and Advocate Ciska Bezuidenhout for their support and commitment to the NSPCA throughout the defamation case.

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