Free State Professor Convicted For Lion Starvation In Animal Cruelty Case

A Free state Professor, Thabo Masihlelo has been convicted of animal cruelty by the Frankfort Magistrate’s Court and sentenced to a R5,000 fine or 10 months’ imprisonment — half of which is suspended for five years — on condition that he does not repeat the offense.

The conviction comes under the Animal Protection Act (APA) following a harrowing discovery of severely neglected lions on his property in Tweeling, Free State.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Sizwe Dhlomo’s Epic Clapback Leaves Mzansi Gagged After His “Horrendous” Wedding Fit Gets Roasted

The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) Wildlife Protection Unit (WPU) conducted an investigation in 2023, in Free State which led to the charges.

The lions were reportedly found in dire conditions, severely malnourished and left to suffer without food or care.

Lions Found Emaciated, Starving On Captive Breeding Farm

During the investigation at Free state, the NSPCA found multiple lions in varying stages of starvation, with visible ribs, spines, and hip bones — clear signs of prolonged neglect.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Living Longer And Better With The Blue Zone Diet Principles

Masihlelo, who claimed to breed lions under the pretext of supporting conservation, had failed to provide even the most basic sustenance.

“The malnutrition and mistreatment of the lions under Professor Masihlelo’s so-called ‘care’ serves as a stark reminder of the cruelty within the captive lion industry,” the NSPCA stated.

Lions were reportedly kept in cramped and overcrowded enclosures, lacking adequate shelter, nutrition, or veterinary support.

NSPCA Calls For Harsher Sentences In Animal Abuse Cases

Chief Inspector Douglas Wolhuter, Manager of the NSPCA’s Wildlife Protection Unit, welcomed the conviction but reiterated the need for stricter penalties for animal cruelty.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: “Too Late, Too Loud?” – SA Repulsed As Gayton McKenzie Finally Pays For Winnie Khumalo’s Funeral At 51

“While we would prefer far more serious consequences for such offenses, this case sends a clear message — animal cruelty will not be tolerated,” he said.

He noted that, the NSPCA will continue its efforts to expose abuses in the captive lion industry, which is fraught with unethical practices such as canned hunting, cub petting, and the lion bone trade.

The organization is calling for an overhaul of the industry to ensure that animal welfare is prioritized and enforced.

---

For SA Crime News Follow SurgeZirc SA on Facebook,  X and Instagram