John Hume, 83, linked to $14.1 million rhino horn trafficking scheme
South African prosecutors have accused John Hume, 83, a well-known rhino breeder with one of the world's largest herds at his Johannesburg ranch, of operating a global rhino horn smuggling network involving five other people. The scheme allegedly involved 964 rhino horns valued at $14.1 million. Hume was granted $5,000 bond by Pretoria magistrates court after surrendering to police. The six suspects, including a lawyer, insurance broker, and game reserve manager, face 55 charges such as racketeering, fraud, theft, and money laundering. South Africa's environment minister Dion George called the investigation a demonstration of the country's resolve to protect natural heritage. The nation has the world's largest rhino population (16,000-18,000) but faces poaching threats, with 103 rhinos killed between January and March 2025.