MARULENG | Maruleng Local Municipality wishes to alert residents of Worcester and surrounding areas following reports of a lion that was spotted roaming in the area.
The Municipality says they understands that this may cause fear and anxiety among residents, particularly families, learners, workers and those who move around the area on foot. Residents are therefore urged to remain calm, stay indoors where possible, and avoid unnecessary movement until the animal has been safely located and captured.
Members of the public are strongly warned not to approach, provoke, follow, film at close range, or attempt to capture the lion. The animal remains dangerous and unpredictable, and any attempt to get close to it may put lives at serious risk.
Mayor Cllr Tsheko Musolwa has urged residents to prioritise their safety while allowing the relevant authorities to handle the situation.
“Maruleng is known as a wildlife haven, and over the years our communities have lived side by side with wildlife through carefully managed systems and partnerships. However, when an animal such as a lion moves close to residential areas, our first priority is the safety of our people. We appeal to residents to remain calm, avoid panic, and report any sightings immediately,” says Mayor Musolwa.
The Municipality is working closely with relevant stakeholders, including wildlife and conservation authorities, to ensure that the lion is safely located and captured without endangering residents or the animal.
Residents who spot the lion are advised to keep a safe distance, move to a place of safety, and immediately report the sighting to the Municipality or relevant authorities.