In a shocking turn of events, esteemed South African conservationist John Hume has found himself embroiled in a major legal controversy involving smuggling allegations. According to recent reports, Hume, who is recognized for establishing what is thought to be the largest rhino farm globally, has been accused of trafficking rhino horns estimated to be worth $14 million (£10 million). The 83-year-old insists he is innocent and has "nothing to hide."
Hume, alongside five other individuals including a lawyer and a game reserve manager, was summoned to court on 55 counts, which range from theft to money laundering and fraud. The allegations suggest they were part of an intricate trafficking syndicate for rhino horns from South Africa to South East Asia from 2017 to 2024, as reported by prosecutors.
The defendants are believed to have smuggled over 960 rhino horns while obtaining permits for local sales, with the underlying aim of exporting them illegally to parts of South East Asia, where the horns are sought after for traditional medicinal uses. In South Africa, while selling rhino horns between citizens is permitted, any form of export is banned.
During a court session in Pretoria on Tuesday, the group was granted bail but did not submit a plea, which is standard procedure in South African initial court appearances. Refuting the allegations, Hume maintained his defense, stating, “I categorically reject the allegations against me,” expressing confidence that the legal proceedings would ultimately clear his name.
Hume previously operated his farm, Platinum Rhino, which housed about 2,000 southern white rhinos. He sold the farm in 2023, citing financial issues that hindered his ability to care for the rhinos he had devoted over twenty years to breeding.
Born in Zimbabwe and initially raised on a sheep farm, Hume transitioned into conservation efforts in the 1990s after working in the resort development sector. His case highlights ongoing concerns regarding wildlife trafficking and the complexity of conservation efforts in contemporary contexts.
