Organised Crime Unit leads investigation into Mangaung prison escape case
29 March 2023
The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola has ordered the prioritisation of investigations into the Mangaung prison escape case, and this is done in the best interest of justice for the victims, survivors, and the affected families.
Detectives from the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) and the Organised Crime Investigations (OCI) units in the Free State and Gauteng provinces have been working together around the clock on this investigation.
A case of murder is under investigation following the outcome of the DNA analysis that confirmed that the body of the deceased which was found was not of Thabo Bester. The autopsy report went on to further reveal that the deceased had died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head, and was already dead, prior to the arson incident. A case of escape from lawful custody was also registered on confirmation by the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) that Thabo Bester was not in their custody. The likelihood of more charges being added cannot be ruled out as the investigation unfolds.
Due to the sensitive nature of the investigations, General Masemola is appealing to the public for patience and that the Detectives be allowed the space to conduct a thorough investigation, towards building a watertight case that can ultimately stand in court.
"Placing undue pressure on the investigators and demanding blow-by-blow updates at this stage, has the potential to jeopardise the investigation," said General Masemola.
It should also be noted that the leaking of sensitive and confidential information to media houses is being looked into by authorities.
To this end, a manhunt has been launched for all persons of interest in this particular case.
No further information will be provided at this stage. The SAPS will give updates when circumstances permit.
Issued by Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, SAPS National Spokesperson, 29 March 2023
