Cecil the Lion: Zimbabwean Hunter Theo Bronkhorst Bids to End Trial

Zimbabwean hunter Theo Bronkhorst, who led the expedition that killed famed lion Cecil, bids to end his trial.

Theo Bronkhorst has been charged with “failing to prevent an illegal hunt”.

Photo AFP/Getty Images

His lawyer told the court the charge was “not clear and the circumstances do not constitute a chargeable offence”, reports AFP news agency.

Cecil the lion – a favorite at Hwange National Park – was shot by American dentist Walter Palmer with a bow and arrow.

Theo Bronkhorst denies any wrongdoing, saying he had obtained all the permits required to kill an elderly lion that was outside the national park boundaries.

The trial in Hwange, south-west of Zimbabwe’s capital Harare, has been adjourned until 15 October.

The magistrate will announce then whether it will go ahead.