The Thabo Bester escape saga took a turn on Monday when police confirmed the death of a lead investigator in the case.
UPDATE: As reported by SABC News journalist, Chriselda Lewis, sources close to the situation suggest the unnamed investigator took his life. This claim, of course, remains speculative as police remain mum about the mystery death. This is a developing story.
Lead investigator in Thabo Bester escape dies: Here’s everything we know
In a statement, Free State police were careful about revealing details of the investigator and the manner of his death,
From what we know, the investigator was a high-ranking official. In fact, the police described him as “the provincial head of organised crime in the Free State province.”
Other than that, police remain mum, only stating that the death is “the subject of a police investigation.”
“The SAPS management wishes not to discuss this matter in the public domain at this early stage,” the police said.
This development comes hours after Thabo Bester’s lover, Dr Nandipha Magudumana suffered an epic loss in her bid to declare her deportation from Tanzania unlawful.
In delivering the judgment, Judge Phillip Loubser highlighted that Magudumana was fully aware of the charges she would be facing during the handover process between the Tanzanian and South African governments upon her return.
The judge also noted that Magudumana did not resist during the handover process, expressing her desire to reunite with her children in South Africa.
Judge Loubser emphasised that Magudumana actively participated in the handover process and stated that if she had any concerns, she should address them with the Tanzanian government.
The court had previously heard arguments from Magudumana’s legal representative, as well as advocates representing Home Affairs and the South African Police Services.
Both Bester and Magudumana are due in court on Tuesday, 20 June 2023.