South African Conservationist John Hume Denies Rhino Horn Smuggling Charges

John Hume, the former owner of a major rhino farm in South Africa, has been charged with smuggling rhino horns valued at $14 million. He vehemently denies the allegations and asserts that he will be vindicated in court.

A prominent South African conservationist, John Hume, has vehemently denied accusations of smuggling rhino horns estimated at $14 million. Hume, who previously owned the world’s largest rhino farm, claims to have “nothing to hide” in light of the serious charges against him.

The 83-year-old Hume, alongside five associates—including a lawyer and a game reserve manager—was charged with 55 counts ranging from theft and money laundering to fraud. Prosecutors allege that the group was part of an international syndicate responsible for trafficking over 960 rhino horns from South Africa to Southeast Asia between 2017 and 2024.

While selling rhino horns is permissible among South African citizens, exporting them is illegal. Authorities allege that Hume and his co-defendants obtained local permits with the covert intention of exporting the horns, typically utilized in traditional medicine.

During a recent court appearance in Pretoria, Hume and his associates were granted bail but did not enter a plea. Expressing confidence in his eventual exoneration, Hume stated, "I categorically reject the allegations against me and maintain that I have never acted unlawfully."

Having sold his farm, Platinum Rhino, in 2023 due to financial constraints, Hume emphasized his long-standing commitment to rhino conservation, a mission he has pursued since the 1990s. Raised on a sheep farm in Zimbabwe, he transitioned to conservation after developing holiday resorts.

Hume's case highlights ongoing concerns regarding wildlife trafficking in South Africa and the challenges faced by those attempting to protect endangered species.