In a dramatic fall from grace, American wildlife influencer Mike Holston, famed as 'The Real Tarzann', is being forcibly ejected from South Africa and is confronting serious criminal charges. The drastic measures come after a controversial video of the social media star wrestling a crocodile ignited a firestorm of criticism from animal rights groups and government officials alike.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) confirmed that Holston's visa has been revoked and he is slated for deportation. This decisive action follows an investigation into a now-viral clip that showed the influencer grappling with a Nile crocodile in the wild, an act deemed reckless and exploitative by authorities.
PETA's Crusade and Official Backlash
The international animal rights organisation PETA played a pivotal role in the case, filing an urgent complaint with South African ministers. The group condemned Holston's actions as a 'shameful act of cruelty' designed for nothing more than 'cheap thrills and online engagement'.
PETA emphasised that such behaviour not only causes immense stress and potential injury to the protected animal but also sets a dangerous precedent, encouraging others to harass wildlife for social media clout.
South Africa's Environment Minister, Barbara Creecy, acted swiftly upon receiving the complaint, instructing officials to investigate the incident with immediate effect. The department's statement was unequivocal: Holston's actions were in direct violation of the country's laws and ethical standards towards wildlife.
Charges and Consequences
Beyond mere deportation, Holston's troubles are mounting. The DFFE has stated its intention to pursue criminal charges against him for allegedly contravening the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA).
This legal framework is designed to protect the country's rich biodiversity and strictly prohibits the illegal hunting, capture, or harassment of any threatened or protected species without the requisite permits. A conviction could result in a severe fine or even a prison sentence.
The controversial video, which has since been widely circulated, shows Holston approaching the large reptile, grabbing its jaws, and attempting to subdue it. Wildlife experts were quick to condemn the stunt, highlighting the extreme danger to both the man and the animal, as well as the negative message it sends about wildlife conservation.
A Pattern of Behaviour
This is not the first time the content creator has courted controversy with his hands-on approach to wildlife. His YouTube and Instagram channels, followed by millions, frequently feature close encounters with dangerous animals, including big cats, snakes, and primates.
While he often claims his work is educational and promotes conservation, critics argue it often blurs the line between education and sensationalistic entertainment, prioritising viral moments over animal welfare.
The South African government's firm stance sends a powerful message that the exploitation of its native wildlife for social media content will not be tolerated. This case is being closely watched as a potential precedent for holding influencers accountable for their actions in the digital wild west.
