The lawyers representing Thabo Bester, a convicted killer and rapist, withdrew themselves from his case related to his prison escape. Bester, along with eight others, is currently on trial for the escape that occurred in May of last year from Mangaung prison.
Due to the scheduled postponement, Bester appeared via a live camera feed from Pretoria’s Kgosi Mampuru II prison, where he is currently detained. Given the security risks involved, it is anticipated that he will only be physically present in court during the trial. Meanwhile, Bester’s lover, Nandipha Magudumana, the fourth accused, attended the court hearing alongside her father, Zolile Sekeleni, Senohe Matsoara, Teboho Lipholo, Motenyani Masukela, Teiho Makhotsa, Nastassja Jansen, and Xanda Moyo.
Moyo, the newest accused, decided to waive his right to bail. His legal representatives informed the court that Moyo had been arrested in 2015 for an undisclosed “matter” that provided limited information.
Bester’s legal counsel decided to recuse themselves from the case. This decision reportedly had no connection to advocate Tsoeunyane Pela and instructing attorney Tsireledzo Ndou, who are separately facing their own criminal charges. Both matters are scheduled for this month.
Kabelo Matee has taken over as Bester’s new attorney of record. The prosecutor, Sello Matlhoko, informed the court that the adjournment, which is set until 8th August, will enable the arrest of three additional individuals. The ongoing investigation is currently examining cellphone and bank records.
During the hearing, Sekeleni, who is currently out on bail, requested to be excused from the next appearance due to the considerable distance between his home in the Eastern Cape and the court, which is likely to lead to another postponement. However, Magistrate Mohlolo Khabisi declined the request after consulting with Sekeleni’s legal counsel on how to ensure his availability for future court appearances after 8th August.
Outside the courtroom, family and friends of Katlego Bereng, whose body was used as a decoy in Bester’s burnt cell on the night of his escape, held placards displaying his image along with the message “no bail for perpetrators.