British soldier killed by elephant in anti-poaching operation in Malawi

A serving British soldier has been killed by an elephant while on anti-poaching operations in Malawi.

Guardsman Mathew Talbot was on patrol in Liwonde National Park on Sunday when he was killed by an elephant, it is understood. He was 22.

In a statement, the MoD said: “It is with great sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the death of Guardsman Mathew Talbot of The 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards, who has tragically died on counter poaching operations in Malawi on 5 May 2019.”

Defence Secretary Penny Mourdant said that Gdsm Talbot’s death is “a reminder of the danger our military faces as they protect some of the world’s most endangered species from those who seek to profit from the criminal slaughter of wildlife.”

Gdsm Talbot, described as “exceptionally kind and friendly”, had spent the first year of his career based in London conducting state ceremonial and public duties on completion of his military training.

The deployment to Malawi was his first operational deployment, where he took “great pride” in being a counter-poaching operator within his team.

He is said to have befriended the locals and was learning their language, as well as making good friends with other nationals on the team.

“I will always feel honoured to have served alongside Guardsman Mathew Talbot”, said Lt Col Ed Launders MBE Commanding Officer.

“He was a determined and big-hearted Coldstreamer who devoted his life to serving his country. It was typical of his character to volunteer for an important and challenging role in Malawi.

“He was hugely proud to of his work as a Counter-Poaching Operator, and tragically died doing great good.”

Major Richard Wright, Company Commander said that he had only known Gdsm Talbot for a short period of time, but that “he never failed to make me smile”.

“A real character who was always full of wit and never short of a joke or two, he quickly and easily made lifelong friends in the team.”

He said that Gdsm Talbot had been training in a harsh and demanding environment in Kenya before volunteering to mentor and partner the Malawian Ranger Force in their fight against the illegal wildlife trade.

The MoD added that Gdsm Talbot, a “proud Brummie”, was a very keen photographer and enjoyed capturing his time in Malawi.

He was also an avid reader of military history and was “incredibly proud” to serve in a regiment that had such a long an illustrious history.

“We will sorely miss his humour, selflessness and unbeatable spirit,” Lt Col Launders said.

(c) Sky News 2019: British soldier killed by elephant in anti-poaching operation in Malawi