A man was killed when a swarm of bees he had been called to remove from a house in Centurion descended on him on Wednesday night, paramedics said.

"Although he was wearing protective clothing, the bees somehow managed to get into the suit and sting him. It is believed he removed his gloves at some stage during the attack, giving the bees more access to open areas and to sting," spokesperson Mike Stokoe said.

Paramedics called to the scene found it difficult to help the man in time as the bees were "extremely aggressive", making it difficult for them to get closer.

"A doctor at the scene was stung when she tried in vain to get closer... there was unfortunately nothing that could be done for the victim after the aggressive attack and he was declared dead on the scene by paramedics," Stokoe said.

He advised people to avoid disturbing swarms of bees or bee hives and to rather call professionals to remove unwanted bees or hives.

Sapa