Professor Thabo Masihlelo has been convicted of animal cruelty 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 re-offend.
In 2023, the National Council of SPCAs’ (NSPCA) Wildlife Protection Unit (WPU) conducted an inspection at Masihlelo’s farm in Tweeling, Free State. They discovered several lions in varying stages of starvation, which highlighted the severe neglect they had been subjected to.
Although Masihlelo claimed to breed captive lions under the guise of supporting conservation efforts in South Africa, he had failed to meet even the most basic requirement of feeding the animals. Lions, severely emaciated with visible ribs, spines, and hip bones, were left to endure prolonged starvation.
In May 2023, the NSPCA’s WPU laid criminal charges against Masihlelo in terms of the Animals Protection Act (APA) 71 of 1962. The NSPCA is pleased to confirm that on 9 April 2025, the Frankfort Magistrate’s Court found the accused guilty of contravening the APA and handed down the sentence.
The starvation and abuse of the lions in Masihlelo’s so-called “care” is a stark reminder of the lack of regard for the welfare of captive lions. While the captive lion industry continues to promote a narrative of conservation, this case further supports the NSPCA’s longstanding concerns about the true nature of the industry.
“Of course, we would prefer much stricter penalties for crimes against animals,” said Chief Inspector Douglas Wolhuter, Manager of the NSPCA’s Wildlife Protection Unit. “Nonetheless, this successful conviction sends a clear message that we will not tolerate animal cruelty in any form.”
The NSPCA remains committed to exposing and challenging the captive lion industry, which is plagued by unregulated breeding, canned hunting, the lion bone trade, and exploitative practices such as cub petting.
Captive lions are frequently confined to small, overcrowded enclosures without adequate shelter or veterinary care. Many suffer from poor nutrition and unhygienic conditions. These animals are deprived of any semblance of a natural life and are instead condemned to ongoing abuse and neglect.
The NSPCA continues to play a vital role in preventing the suffering endured by animals like these in captive breeding facilities.
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