Controversial Caver Accused of Theft Appointed to Head Slovak Cave Administration
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Branislav Šmída has been appointed as the new director of the Slovak Cave Administration, effective from the end of April 2026. Šmída, a geologist and speleologist, is known for significant cave discoveries including the Mesačný tieň (Moonlight Shadow) cave in the Tatra Mountains and caves in Venezuela's table mountains. However, his appointment comes amid controversy, as he has a reputation for conflict and has allegedly stolen backpacks from Czech colleagues, leaving them exposed to freezing conditions. The Slovak Cave Administration manages the country's extensive cave systems, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites and popular tourist destinations.