For years his name has been associated with the poaching of rhinos in South Africa. His death, which took place in an armed ambush, rekindled a debate that goes far beyond the news.
Petros Mabuza, known in the criminal environment with the nickname "Mr. Big" and indicated by several sources as a prominent figure in the illegal traffic of rhino horns, was accused of being part of a bracconaggio network. He was killed while he was on board his car in the middle of the day.
The news spread rapidly on social networks, where the reactions split.
On the one hand, many wildlife defenders interpreted his death as the end of one of the men held responsible for the devastation of a species already seriously threatened by poaching.
On the other hand, many people have remembered that the loss of a human life should never become an insult, regardless of the severity of the accusations or the past of those who die.
The case shows attention to a phenomenon that continues to represent one of the greatest threats to African biodiversity.
Every year, criminal organizations feed an illegal market, supported by the demand for rhino horns intended for international traffic, which jeopardizes the survival of the species.
The fight against this trade requires investigations, international cooperation and the application of the law.
But the story of Petros Mabuza also recalls another reality: when violence dominates a criminal context, it often generates other violence.
There is therefore a question which continues to divide the public.
Is it possible to feel relief for the end of the activity of an alleged brazier without transforming the death of a person into a reason for celebration?
Perhaps this is the most difficult reflection that this story leaves us.