Woman, 21, mauled to death by lions after entering enclosure at game reserve

She was found collapsed by the gate with devastating injuries after escaping from the cage and alerting staff by screaming. She was covered in blood with deep bite and claw wounds.

Paramedics rushed to the scene but despite their efforts, she was declared dead at the scene.

Police are investigating the game reserve at Bela-Bela in Limpopo, South Africa. An inquest has also been opened.

South African Police spokesman Colonel Moatshe Ngoepe said:”Our initial investigations show she was performing her duties when attacked by an unknown number of lions.

“The circumstances leading to this tragic incident are still unknown at this stage”.

Police could not say whether the lions involved would be destroyed, saying it was a decision for the game lodge and the authorities that monitor game lodges.

It is understood that game lodge staff who witnessed the aftermath and co-workers of the dead woman will be offered counselling and time off.

The game lodge is now closed to the public.

The lodge where the horrifying incident happened has not yet been revealed and there are dozens of lodges in the area.