Businessman Fatally Mauled by Lioness While Camping in Namibia

A German businessman, Bernd Kebbel, was mauled to death by a lioness during a camping safari in Namibia. He was attacked after stepping out of his tent on May 30. Despite efforts to scare the lioness away, Kebbel succumbed to his injuries. Authorities later euthanized the lioness due to ongoing safety concerns.

A tragic incident occurred in Namibia, where a 59-year-old businessman and philanthropist was killed by a lioness during a safari trip with his wife and friends. Bernd Kebbel was camping near the Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp in the Sesfontein area on Friday morning, May 30, when the attack happened, as reported by various media outlets. He had exited his tent to use the toilet when the lioness struck him.

According to Ndeshipanda Hamunyela, a spokesperson from Namibia’s Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism, Kebbel was attacked shortly after leaving his tent. “The victim had stepped out of his tent to use the toilet on Friday morning, May 30, when he was attacked by the lioness,” Hamunyela stated, citing reports from Informante. Despite the group’s efforts to scare the lioness away, Kebbel unfortunately succumbed to his injuries shortly after.

Law enforcement officials confirmed presence at the scene and assured that a comprehensive report would be prepared regarding this tragic incident. A police spokesperson advised CBS News, indicating that further investigations are underway.

In a subsequent development, the lioness was euthanized on Sunday, June 1, due to concerns that she might continue to pose a danger to tourists and local communities. The decision was made to maintain safety in the area, as authorities recognized the risk this lioness represented, given the nature of the attack.

Kebbel was not just a businessman but was also known for his philanthropic efforts and as the former owner of the Offroad Centre, a facility that provided specialized equipment for off-road vehicles. This incident highlights the challenges faced in regions like Namibia, where desert-adapted lions roam.

The northwest part of Namibia, where the tragedy unfolded, is home to a distinctive population of desert-adapted lions. These lions are specially adapted to survive in their harsh environment, with estimates suggesting that there are around 60 adult lions and over a dozen cubs residing in this region as of 2023.

The tragic death of Bernd Kebbel due to a lioness attack during a safari emphasizes the unpredictability of wildlife encounters. The swift action by his friends could not save him, and the decision to euthanize the lioness reflects the complexities of balancing human safety with wildlife conservation. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in close encounters with wild animals in their natural habitats.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com