Cape Town – A South African soldier, Private Xavier Raynard, was reportedly trampled to death by a herd of elephants during a border patrol near Musina in Limpopo, close to the Zimbabwean border.
The incident occurred on Sunday night near the SANDF’s Madimbo base, and his body was recovered the next day, reports said.
“Private Xavier Raynard, from the 10 Anti-Aircraft Regiment, was doing his usual patrol when he died,” Crime Watch Zimbabwe reported in a social media post.
“His body was found the next day, and his gun was also found at the scene.”
SAD | A South African soldier was kiIIed by a herd of elephants while on patrol near the Limpopo River in Musina, close to the Zimbabwe border.
The incident happened on Sunday night, about 300 meters from the SANDF’s Madimbo base. Private Xavier Raynard, from the 10… pic.twitter.com/mGPOa7IIku
— Crime Watch Zimbabwe (@crimewatchzw) July 29, 2025
According to Times Live, an investigation and formal board of inquiry have been launched.
SANDF acknowledged the risks soldiers face, including dangerous wildlife.
Conservationist Lauren Liebenberg noted that elephant-human conflict is escalating in the Limpopo River Valley, particularly during the dry season, the report said.
A US-supported mitigation programme had previously helped manage the issue but was cancelled earlier this year, worsening the situation.
While fatalities remain rare, elephants cause extensive damage to crops, infrastructure, and ecosystems.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
