In a striking turn of events, renowned South African conservationist John Hume found himself at the center of a serious legal controversy, charged with smuggling rhino horns valued at approximately $14 million (£10 million). Hume, the former owner of the world's largest rhino farm, pleaded his case of innocence, claiming he has "nothing to hide" and has cooperated fully with the ongoing investigations over the last few years.
The 83-year-old conservationist appeared in a magistrate's court alongside five co-defendants, including a lawyer and a game reserve manager, facing a total of 55 charges that range from theft and money laundering to fraud. Prosecutors argue that the accused played pivotal roles in a sophisticated international trafficking operation from 2017 to 2024, illicitly exporting more than 960 rhino horns from South Africa to Southeast Asia under the guise of legitimate sales permits.
While selling rhino horns is legal within South Africa, exporting them remains strictly prohibited. During their initial court appearances in Pretoria, the defendants were granted bail but opted not to enter pleas—a common practice in South African legal proceedings at this stage.
Expressing confidence in his potential acquittal, Hume stated, "I categorically reject the allegations against me and maintain that I have never acted unlawfully. I am confident that, once the facts are tested in court, I will be vindicated and my innocence confirmed."
Hume previously operated the Platinum Rhino farm, home to around 2,000 southern white rhinos, for over 20 years before selling it in 2023 due to financial constraints in sustaining the animals. Originating from Zimbabwe and raised on a sheep farm, Hume transitioned to wildlife conservation in the 1990s after a career in developing holiday resorts.
As this high-profile case unfolds, the impact on conservation efforts and the legal landscape concerning the trade of rhino horns in South Africa remains a focal point of interest for environmental advocates and the global community.
