John Hume, a highly regarded conservationist in South Africa, has publicly denied allegations of smuggling rhino horns worth $14 million. Despite facing serious charges including theft, money laundering, and fraud along with five co-defendants, Hume remains defiant, asserting that he has "nothing to hide." He appeared in a Pretoria court on Tuesday, where he and his co-defendants were granted bail and did not enter a plea.
Prosecutors allege that Hume and his associates were involved in an international trafficking operation from 2017 to 2024, illegally exporting over 960 rhino horns to Southeast Asia, where they are sought for use in traditional medicine. Under South African law, while the sale of rhino horns is permitted domestically, exporting them is prohibited.
Hume, who has dedicated over two decades to breeding rhinos at what was once the world's largest rhino farm, maintained his innocence in a public statement. “I categorically reject the allegations against me and maintain that I have never acted unlawfully," he said, expressing confidence that he would be vindicated when the facts were presented in court.
In 2023, Hume sold his farm, Platinum Rhino, which housed around 2,000 southern white rhinos, citing an inability to continue supporting the animals financially. Originally from Zimbabwe, Hume transitioned into conservation after a career in developing holiday resorts in the 1990s.
This case sheds light on the ongoing battle against wildlife trafficking in South Africa, amidst rising illegal trade activities.
