Two Zimbabweans face charges over death of Cecil the lion

Harare (AFP) - A Zimbabwean professional hunter and a local landowner will appear in court on poaching charges for allegedly killing a much-loved lion called Cecil, officials said Tuesday, after the felion's death caused widespread outrage.

A statement issued by the Zimbabwean Parks Authority made no reference to reports that it was a wealthy Spanish or American man had killed Cecil with a bow and arrow after paying a $50,000 fee.

"Theo Bronkhorst, a professional hunter with Bushman Safaris, is facing criminal charges for allegedly killing a collared lion on Antoinette farm in Gwayi Conservancy, Hwange district on 1 July 2015," the statement said.

It said Bronkhorst and landowner Honest Ndlovu would appear in court on Wednesday.

The lion, which was a popular attraction among visitors to the Hwange National Park, was allegedly tempted outside the park using bait and then shot.

Local media reports said Cecil, aged about 13, had been beheaded and skinned after his death.

The animal was collared and tracked for research.

"All persons implicated in this case are due to appear in court facing poaching charges," the statement said.

"Both the professional hunter and land owner had no permit or quota to justify the offtake of the lion and therefore are liable for the illegal hunt."

The statement said that Bronkhorst's son Zane was also wanted for questioning, and that the lion trophy had been confiscated.

The safari operators association was due to give a press conference later Tuesday.