A park ranger who took a shortcut at night to walk across a South African nature reserve was eaten alive by three lions, it has emerged.

Victim Johannes Matshe’s gruesome remains were found the next day on 14th August at the Dinokeng Game Reserve in the province of Gauteng.

The 30-year-old victim’s partially-eaten body was discovered by a fencing crew, reported local media.

Reserve spokesperson Hartogh Streicher said: “The individual was attacked and killed by lions while attempting to traverse the reserve by foot after dark.”

Streicher added: “The operations manager confirmed the loss of life promptly.”

Park officials have been given permission to kill the three lions who attacked 30-year-old Matshe.

Strict reserve rules forbid anyone from walking over the territory at night, or at any time, and also getting out of vehicles except at official drop-off zones.

South African Police Service are investigating the death. 

Streicher explained: “This incident underscores the necessity of caution when interacting with the reserve’s wildlife.

“By adhering to the rules and practising responsible behaviour, a safer environment can be ensured for everyone.

“An investigation is currently underway.”