Thabo Bester, infamously known as the “Facebook Rapist,” is back in court today as he attempts to secure access to a laptop while in prison.
Story Summary:
- Thabo Bester is heading to court to request access to a laptop, arguing it’s crucial for preparing his legal defence.
- Bester’s 2022 escape from Mangaung Prison involved a laptop, which the Department of Correctional Services cites as a security risk.
- The Department has opposed his laptop request, citing concerns over a possible escape.
Tune in live: Thabo Bester in court over access to laptop
The proceedings, which are being streamed live, will determine whether the convicted murderer and fraudster can use a laptop to prepare his defence for upcoming legal battles.
Bester claims that without a laptop, he cannot adequately manage his defence strategy for the trial scheduled for February 2025.
He is currently representing himself in parts of the case and insists that the complexities of his defence, which allegedly involve an oath of secrecy linked to the State Security Agency and the Office of the Presidency, require extensive preparation that he cannot manage without access to a computer.
You can watch the court proceedings live below.
Thabo Bester fields reasons for his need of a laptop in prison
Bester’s argument for needing a laptop is based on his desire to review legal documents and conduct research related to his trial.
According to Bester, he has been denied access to materials that are crucial for his defence, which violates his right to a fair trial.
He has also emphasised that his case is more intricate due to the involvement of state intelligence, stating:
“I am not only fighting for my right to a fair trial but the basic human dignity that every detainee is entitled to.”
Bester believes that his ability to prepare thoroughly is hindered without the tools necessary to examine evidence and prepare legal arguments, potentially jeopardising his trial in 2025.
Why a laptop in Bester’s possession poses a security threat
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS), however, remains firmly opposed to Bester’s request, arguing that giving him access to a laptop could endanger the security of the prison and the public.
The department cited Bester’s 2022 escape from Mangaung Prison, during which he faked his death, as a clear example of how access to technology can be abused.
Bester used a laptop to create an alternative identity under the alias Thomas Motsepe while in custody. He also orchestrated an elaborate scheme that allowed him to con millions from victims.
The DCS spokesperson, Singabakho Nxumalo, made it clear that providing Bester with a laptop presents a substantial risk:
“We are dealing with an inmate capable of engineering elaborate means to escape from lawful custody. Hence, we are duty-bound to employ strict security measures, within the confines of the law, in order to prevent any chance of him escaping once again.”
The department’s refusal is rooted in concerns that Bester could use technology to orchestrate another escape or engage in further criminal activities, as he has done in the past.