Overview
- Video shows the lion squeezing through a roof hatch, riding atop the trailer near Bakerville, then leaping to the roadside.
- DEDECT confirmed the animal was safely captured and said preliminary findings suggest possible permit infringements.
- The department will verify compliance with permit Condition 5 on public liability insurance and warns of severe action if breaches are confirmed.
- Veterinarian Anton Nel located the sedated lion, darted it for reloading, and reported only a ripped nail and minor scrapes.
- The lion was being transported from the Free State to a game farm near Zeerust, and purported owner Pat Loots said it arrived safely.