Cecil hunter says charges against him are ‘crazy’ and 'frivolous’

A professional hunter accused of failing to prevent the unlawful killing of Cecil the lion has branded the charges against him “crazy” as he arrived at court. Theo Bronkhorst told journalists he believed he had the right hunting permit and that the charges he faced were “frivolous”. Wearing dark glasses inside the courthouse and accompanied by his lawyer Givemore Muvhiringi, Mr Bronkhorst said he had a good legal team and that he expected to come through the ordeal. The case was adjourned until September 28 so they could prepare a defence. Cecil was killed, skinned and beheaded by U.S. dentist Walter Palmer who paid about $50,000 for the hunt near the Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe.

(Hunting) is an integral part of our country and it’s got to continue.

Hunter Theo Bronkhorst

Bronkhorst and Mr Palmer have denied any wrongdoing, and have claimed they were unaware that Cecil had been collared and protected. Although Mr Palmer has not been charged with any offence, there have been growing calls for the US tourist to be extradited to Zimbabwe to stand trial. The well-loved and well-known lion was part of a long-term conservation study being overseen by Oxford University, and he was wearing a radio collar when he was shot. It’s claimed hunters removed the collar and left it in a tree.

Africa Bronkhorst