The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) released a statement in March 2023 announcing their investigation into the escape of Thabo Bester from prison in 2022. The investigation was launched after a deceased person was found in Bester’s cell, but the post-mortem report revealed that the body was not Bester’s. The DCS is now appealing to the public to assist with any information that may lead to the re-arrest of Bester.
The DCS signed a public-private partnership (PPP) agreement with the Contractor, Bloemfontein Correctional Contracts to design, construct, operate and maintain a correctional centre in Bloemfontein. The agreement stated that the DCS has a duty of monitoring the daily operations of the facility to ensure that the Contractor complies with the Conditions of the Concession Contract.
The incident in May 2022 attracted media attention and it was confirmed to various media houses as received from G4S. Thabo Bester was sentenced to life and 75 years imprisonment, running concurrently, and the DCS is now in a position to bring forth the findings of its investigation. The post-mortem report on the body found in the cell revealed that there were no signs of smoke inhalation in the body, and the DNA sequencing with a person identified to be the mother of Bester failed to indicate a common ancestor or a match.
The DCS has stated that no stone will be left unturned in getting to the bottom of Thabo Bester’s escape and there will be serious consequences for any party involved. The DCS has urged the public to come forward with any information that may lead to the re-arrest of Bester and asked that such information be provided to the nearest police station or correctional services facility.
The investigation into Thabo Bester’s escape is still ongoing and the DCS has vowed to find the offender and bring him to justice. The DCS is determined to get to the bottom of the case and make sure that those responsible are held accountable.
This article was written by Jurno.
Tags: Thabo Bester