Businessman Mauled to Death by Lioness While Camping in Namibia

Bernd Kebbel, a 59-year-old philanthropist, was killed by a lioness in Namibia while camping with friends. The attack occurred when he stepped out of his tent. Despite attempts to intervene, Kebbel succumbed to his injuries. The lioness was euthanized days later due to ongoing safety concerns for tourists and local communities.

A tragic incident occurred on May 30 when 59-year-old Bernd Kebbel, a renowned German philanthropist and businessman, was attacked and killed by a lioness during a safari camping trip in Namibia’s Hoanib River region. Kebbel was with his wife and friends near the Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp at the time of the incident.

According to Ndeshipanda Hamunyela, a spokesperson for Namibia’s Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, the attack happened after Kebbel exited his tent to use the restroom. “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 said, as reported by Informante.

Despite the group’s swift response in chasing the lioness away, Kebbel’s injuries proved fatal. A police spokesperson later confirmed that authorities were present at the scene and stated a full report would follow in due course.

In a follow-up action, the lioness that attacked Kebbel was euthanized on June 1. Officials made this decision due to concerns that the animal could continue to pose a risk to tourists and local communities. Kebbel was notably the former owner of the Offroad Centre, a business specializing in offroad vehicle equipment.

The region where this tragic event occurred is known for its unique desert-adapted lion population, which is significantly smaller and well-adapted to their harsh surroundings. As of 2023, estimates suggest there are about 60 adult lions and numerous cubs in the area.

The tragic death of Bernd Kebbel underscores the inherent dangers that can arise during wildlife interactions, even in controlled environments like safari camps. This incident resulted not only in the loss of a prominent philanthropist but also prompted significant actions from local authorities for safety measures regarding wildlife. Euthanization of the lioness involved raises discussions about wildlife management and human safety in tourist regions.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com