hunter looking through scope of rifle
Mayukh Saha
Mayukh Saha
April 14, 2024 ·  1 min read

Wildlife Trophy Hunter Killed In South Africa After Being Shot ‘Execution Style’

Recently, a trophy hunter from South Africa was shot to death. The hunter in question, Riaan Naude, was known to frequently upload pictures of himself with the carcasses of lions, elephants, and giraffes.

Unknown assailants shot him near his car in Limpopo, South Africa. For those who are unaware, this is where Kruger National Park is located. The 55-year-old hunter was also the founder and owner of Pro Hunt Africa. This group used to organize hunting trips for other hunters and tourists.[1] 

Read: A Photographer Captured The Last Images of Kenya’s ‘Elephant Queen’ Just Before Her Death

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A post shared by Riaan Naude (@pro_hunt_africa)

Famous Trophy Hunter in South Africa Shot To Death

Police spokesperson, Lt. Col. Mamphaswa Seabi, from the province mentioned that Naude was found lying on his back. According to Seabi, there was blood flowing from his head and face. “The deceased was carrying two hunting firearms, clothes, water, whiskey, sleeping clothes, and many live rounds like he was going hunting and camping somewhere around Sterkrevier, as there are many game farms with wild animals in the area,” Seabi said to Sowetan Live.

The reports further claim that the assailants shot Naude after he pulled to the side of the road. A close-by cattle herder heard the gunshot. After that, they saw a truck speeding away. [2]

Riaan Naude and one of his "trophies".
Image Credits: Pro Hunter Africa | Facebook

The investigation currently underway believes that there is no relation between the murder and the business of trophy hunting. “The motive for the attack and the subsequent murder is unknown at this stage,” commented Seabi. Trophy hunting is still legal and very lucrative activity in South Africa. In fact, according to Humane Society International, in February, the South African government increased trophy hunting quotas for elephants, leopards, and black rhinos.

Keep Reading: When Animals Fight Back, The Hunters Become The Hunted.