NSPCA welcomes long-awaited reform for lion captivity breeding ban

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CAPE TOWN - The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has  welcomed the announcement by Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, on the imminent publication of the Lion Prohibition Notice banning new captive lion breeding facilities.   This long-awaited reform marks a pivotal milestone in dismantling an industry built on systemic cruelty, reflecting years of legal action, public advocacy, and inspections by the NSPCA. The prohibition confirms what the NSPCA has long exposed: the captive lion industry has operated largely unabated for decades, inflicting severe animal welfare violations, damaging South Africa’s conservation reputation, and flouting constitutional obligations to protect sentient beings. While limited to new facilities, this ban sends a clear signal that the commodification of lions for tourism, hunting, and the bone trade is no longer defensible. The NSPCA’s decade-long investigations have laid bare the industry’s brutality. O...

Four alleged hijackers in Mandela house scandal appear in court



Four accused appeared before the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court, charged for allegedly robbing an Uber driver and stealing his vehicle in the area of Houghton.

The accused face charges of robbery with aggravating circumstances, kidnapping and assault. The state alleges that on 8 January 2025, the four individuals requested an Uber ride but instead allegedly robbed the driver of his vehicle. 

The driver reported the incident to the tracking company, alerting the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Tactical Response Unit. 

The unit tracked the hijacked vehicle to a residence in Houghton, previously owned by former President Nelson Mandela.

Upon entering the property, officers arrested five individuals and recovered the alleged stolen vehicle, its number plate and a firearm. The driver was also allegedly robbed of R800 in cash and an additional R300 from their account. The fifth suspect was released following insufficient evidence linking him to the alleged offences. The NPA will await the finalisation of outstanding investigations against them, before deciding whether they should be prosecuted.

The case was adjourned to 17 January 2025 for further investigation and possible bail application.

Source: NPA

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