Trophy hunter shot dead and left on roadside in South Africa – National

A NOTICE: The following article contains content and images that some may find disturbing. Please read at your own discretion.

A trophy hunter known for killing large animals and helping others do the same has been shot dead and abandoned by the side of a road in South Africa, police have confirmed.

Riaan Naude, 55, was the owner and founder of Pro Hunt Africa, a tour group that facilitates paid wildlife hunting trips to the country’s northeastern Limpopo province.

According to local reports, Naude was found dead next to his truck on June 8 near Kruger National Park.

A Limpopo Police representative told reporters Naude was found lying on his back with blood on his face and head.

“The deceased was carrying two hunting weapons, clothing, water, whisky, sleeping clothes and many live rounds as if he were hunting and camping anywhere in the area around Sterkrevier as there are many wildlife farms in the area,” said Lt. Col. Mamphaswa Seabi said, according to local media.

2:21
Outrage over trophy hunting sparks debate

previous video

next video

Naude was reportedly shot as he pulled over to the side of the road while having trouble with the vehicle. A nearby cattle herder reportedly heard the shot and saw a truck pull away.

A look at Naude’s Instagram feed shows the hunter and others posing next to large dead animals, including elephants and giraffes.

Despite its controversy, trophy hunting is legal in South Africa. In fact, the country recently increased its kill quotas for 2022 to allow for the killing of 10 leopards, 150 elephants and 10 black rhinos.

Seabi told reporters they are still trying to uncover a reason for Naude’s killing.

“The motive for the attack and subsequent murder is unknown at this time,” he said, adding that they did not link the murder to Naude’s affinity for trophy hunting.

According to Pro Hunt Africa’s price list, Naude charged clients $350 per day to hunt game, $2,500 to hunt a crocodile, and $1,500 to hunt a giraffe.