Two Men Dead After Killing Hippo for Meat

Two men have died following the illegal hunting of a hippopotamus in a South African nature reserve. The incident occurred in the Imfolozi River floodplain, near Lake St Lucia. The men set a snare to catch the hippo. After killing it, a group gathered to butcher the animal for its meat. This activity is illegal in the protected area. Local authorities reported that community members later found the two men dead at the scene. The exact cause of death is under investigation. Officials have warned that hippo meat can carry dangerous diseases. The area is part of a world heritage site. Illegal hunting, known as poaching, threatens protected wildlife there. Police are investigating the deaths.