In a significant development surrounding the high-profile case of Thabo Bester’s prison escape, authorities have apprehended three more suspects, all of whom are employees of the private security firm G4S.
Thabo Bester arrests: Here’s everything you must know
The arrests come as the investigation into the daring breakout of the convicted rapist and murderer continues.
The three suspects, aged between 37 and 47, were taken into custody on Monday, 26 June 2023.
One of them was apprehended at his residence in Botshabelo, while the other two were arrested at their respective homes in Bloemfontein.
According to police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe, the individuals now face charges related to assisting an inmate’s escape, violation of a corpse, and corruption.
The investigating team assigned to the Thabo Bester case has now arrested a total of 12 suspects thus far. Mathe emphasised that the possibility of further arrests in connection with the case cannot be ruled out, indicating that the investigation is ongoing.
The three newly apprehended individuals are scheduled to appear before the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 28 June 2023.
As legal proceedings progress, the trial against Thabo Bester, the convicted murderer and rapist, has taken an intriguing turn with the introduction of a new legal team. This shift in the defence strategy was revealed during Bester’s recent appearance in the Bloemfontein magistrate’s court.
During the court session, Bester’s defence team sought permission from Magistrate Mohlolo Khabisi to submit an application for recusal, which was subsequently granted.
Additionally, Bester’s newly appointed legal representative, Kabelo Matee, was introduced to the court. This change in legal representation suggests a fresh approach to the defence strategy, further adding to the complexity and dynamics of the case.
The trial has been adjourned until 8 August 2023, to provide the prosecution with sufficient time to review Bester’s cellphone records and bank statements.
These investigative measures aim to gather crucial evidence that will shed light on the circumstances surrounding the escape.