The Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism (MEFT) this week expressed deep sorrow following two separate fatal elephant attacks on 17 June within the country. The first incident involved the tragic death of Gert Van der Walt, a renowned professional hunter, during a hunting expedition. The ministry identified the elephant involved as a problem-causing animal and issued a trophy hunting permit accordingly. Van der Walt, known for his adherence to hunting ethics and his pivotal role in resolving human-wildlife conflicts, was highly respected within the conservation community. The ministry urged the public to honour his memory and denounced unfounded claims surrounding the circumstances of his final hunt. "We have noted with concern the insensitive remarks circulating since the incident," stated MEFT spokesperson Romeo Muyunda, refuting allegations of secrecy surrounding the hunt. "Mr. Van der Walt’s efforts extended beyond his contractual obligations, supporting communities affected by wildlife damage."