Thabo Masihlelo was found guilty by the Frankfort Magistrate’s Court for violating the Animal Protection Act. He received a sentence of either a R5,000 fine or 10 months in prison, with half of the prison term suspended for five years on the condition that he does not repeat the offence.

The case followed an investigation in 2023, when animal welfare inspectors visited Masihlelo’s property in Tweeling. There, they found lions in various stages of starvation, with visible ribs, spines, and hip bones—evidence of severe neglect.

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Although Masihlelo claimed to be breeding lions in support of conservation, he had failed to provide basic care, including regular feeding. The animals were reportedly kept in poor conditions, lacking proper shelter, veterinary attention, and space.

Animal welfare authorities stated that this case reflects broader issues within the captive lion industry, including unregulated breeding, the lion bone trade, canned hunting, and exploitative practices like cub petting. Captive lions are often kept in overcrowded, unsanitary conditions and deprived of natural behaviors.

While some officials believe the sentence could have been harsher, the conviction is being seen as a significant step in addressing animal cruelty and holding individuals accountable.

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