In a disturbing development, Tshireledzo Ndou, the instructing attorney representing convicted rapist and murderer Thabo Bester, has been charged with attempted rape and assault.
More details on Tshireledzo Ndou rape case
On Wednesday, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Free State confirmed these charges, shedding light on the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the case. Ndou, aged 27, is currently awaiting trial at the Sexual Offences Court.
According to reports, Ndou is currently practising as a supplementary criminal defence attorney in Bester’s escape case, while out on R1 000 bail.
It is noteworthy that Ndou is not only involved in Bester’s case but is also represented by Advocate Jeremiah Pela, Bester’s main lawyer. This connection raises further questions about the complexities and potential conflicts of interest surrounding the matter.
NPA Free State spokesperson Phaladi Shuping confirmed that Ndou is scheduled to appear in court on 21 June 2023, where he will face charges of attempted rape and assault.
The allegations against Ndou are deeply serious, considering his client, Bester, was convicted of rape and murder in October 2011, a rare irony that certainly won’t bode well for the latter in the court of public opinion.
Zanda Moyo: Suspect number nine arrested for aiding Thabo Bester escape
Meanwhile, a new development has emerged in Thabo Bester’s prison break case.
The ninth accused individual involved in the incident, Zanda Moyo, faced charges in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court. Moyo, aged 31, was charged with violating a dead body, assisting an inmate to escape, and fraud.
This revelation adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing investigation, with further arrests expected as the authorities delve deeper into the matter.
All parties involved in the Bester escape will return to the docks on Tuesday, 20 June 2023, including Dr Nandipha Magudumana, whose daring attempt to declare her Tanzania arrest unlawful was thrown out of court last week.