Phalaborwa – The lion that escaped from Letaba Ranch, north of Phalaborwa, Limpopo, has been captured and relocated to the Northern Kruger National Park.
Reports said the lion was spotted at Selwane village along D3260 road.
Much to the relief of many, Limpopo Economic Development, Environment, and Tourism MEC Tshitereke Matibe, on Wednesday, 24 September 2025, announced that the lion had been found and captured.
The MEC commended the efforts of rangers, the Limpopo Economic Development, Environment, and Tourism team, and private sector stakeholders following the “swift capture” of the escaped male lion.
The lion has been relocated from Letaba Ranch to the Northern Kruger National Park.
MEC Matibe revealed that the operation, carried out in partnership with the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) and SANParks, came after incidents in which the lion killed livestock in the Giyani–Phalaborwa boundary area on 16 and 21 September 2025.
This rapid intervention has not only safeguarded the well-being of nearby community members but also ensured the lion’s continued survival in a protected environment.
“This success demonstrates the importance of collaboration between government, conservation agencies, and the private sector,” said MEC Matibe.
“Our rangers and partners worked tirelessly to secure both our communities and our wildlife heritage.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every individual and organisation that played a role in this delicate and urgent operation.”
MEC Matibe further appealed to communities living near nature reserves and park boundaries to avoid tampering with or cutting fences to access wood or other resources.
“Respecting these boundaries is essential for your own safety, the protection of livestock, and the well-being of our wildlife,” he said.
There were reports of two other lions roaming in Mtimkulu Nature Reserve outside Giyani.
The MEC said there were plans underway, in collaboration with the EWT and SANParks, to capture and relocate them safely to the Kruger National Park.
MEC Matibe said, importantly, these lions were not roaming in communal lands and therefore have not caused damage to livestock.
The MEC reaffirmed the government’s commitment to balancing community safety with conservation priorities.
“Our province’s strength lies in our ability to protect lives, livelihoods, and the biodiversity that makes Limpopo a global treasure,” the MEC said.
“This relocation is proof that when we work together, we can achieve both.”
