Keeper killed by ‘pet’ lions that he loved

TRAGIC Leon with lion A GAME lodge owner was killed by three lions he adored after entering their cage to fix a broken fence.

Leon van Biljon, known as “The Lion Man” due to the bond with his “pets”, was attacked from behind by a beast he trusted.

The 70-year-old, who walked and socialised with his two fully grown male lions Rambo and Nakita and lioness Katryn every day, died almost instantly.

A source at Mahala View Lion Game Lodge at Hammanskraal, South Africa, said he made the error of turning his back.

He added: “There was nothing anyone could have done to save him”.

The lions were shot and killed after the tragedy.

Mr van Biljon had put the lodge up for sale for £220,000 so he could retire.