Mpumalanga residents living near the Kruger National Park’s southern fence have been warned to be alert after about 21 lions escaped in the past three weeks. The massive escape has baffled conservationists. Fourteen of the escaped lions have already been shot dead on various farms in the Onderberg area between Matsulu, just east of Nelspruit, and Komatipoort after they stalked livestock and killed five cattle. A week ago, a lion reportedly entered a workers compound at Transvaal Sugar Limited (TSB). The animal wasn’t caught, but a number of lion spoor was found. MPB officials, who are responsible for wild animals once they escape from game reserves, believe there is no cause for alarm, however.