Man Killed by Hippo at Mahahela Border, Letsitele
By DMSza News – July 17, 2025
Tzaneen, Limpopo – A tragic incident unfolded on Wednesday night at Mahahela border in the Letsitele area, just outside Tzaneen, when a local man was fatally attacked by a hippopotamus while walking at the farming plot.
The incident occurred at a private farm known for its citrus and avocado production, situated along a riverbank where hippos are known to frequent during the dry season. According to local residents, the farm lies close to a water source that often draws wildlife from the nearby Letaba River, especially during the evening and early morning hours.
Emergency services were called to the scene after community members discovered the man’s body near the river edge. Authorities have confirmed the cause of death as injuries sustained during the hippo attack.
Hippos, despite their seemingly calm appearance, are among the most dangerous animals in Africa. Territorial and highly aggressive when provoked or startled, they are responsible for more human deaths on the continent than many predators. In rural areas like Letsitele, where farms and settlements are close to natural water sources, these kinds of incidents, while rare, are a growing concern.
Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution when moving near rivers and dams, especially after dark. Limpopo Wildlife Services have been alerted and are investigating whether the hippo poses an ongoing threat to the community.
Local councilor expressed condolences to the victim’s family and called for increased awareness about human-wildlife conflict in the region. “This is a heartbreaking reminder that nature must be respected. We call on farmers and residents to report frequent hippo sightings so that proper measures can be taken,” he said.
The name of the deceased has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
For more updates, follow The Buzz Nook on all platforms.
Whatsapp: 0810914750
Email: sekgobelamedia@gmail.com
About The Author
