South Africa
Anton Mzimba, 42, Head of Ranger Services of the Timbavati private game reserve near the famous Kruger National Park in northeastern South Africa, was shot dead on Tuesday as he left his home, the South African ministry of Environment said.
"Anton Mzimba was an exceptionally passionate, courageous, and spiritual man [...] a rhino warrior, a wildlife guardian, a loved one, a comrade, a friend and a true legend", the Timbavati game reserve said.
If the details surrounding his murder are unclear, the British association Helping Rhinos alleged that the 42-year-old had received "death threats" lately.
Almost 80% of the world's rhinos are found in South Africa. This makes it a hotbed of poaching for this endangered species, fuelled by demand from Asia, where it is believed the horns have medicinal properties.
Anton won the Field Ranger Award at the Rhino Conservation Awards in 2020. Prince William honored a "committed and brave" ranger.
The South African government said the killing illustrates the dangers faced by wildlife conservationists in the country. More than 450 rhinos were killed by poachers in South Africa in 2021, according to official figures.
Go to video
This is the South African song that won the Grammy over Burna Boy’s "last last"
Go to video
Rhino poaching nearly doubled in Namibia in 2022
Go to video
Former Kenyan policeman sentenced to death for murder
00:58
South Africa: Group protests against loadshedding at Eskom's headquarters
Go to video
South Africa may sponsor Tottenham Hotspur in 48 million euro deal
Go to video
SA's Trevor Noah returns as Grammy host with comfort and nervousness