Investigator in Thabo Bester escape case allegedly dies by suicide

One of the investigators in the Thabo Bester escape case has died. He was also the head of Organised Crime in the Free State.

One of the South African Police Service (SAPS) investigators in the Thabo Bester escape case died, the police confirmed on Monday, 5 June. According to reports, the suspected cause of death is suicide.

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FREE STATE POLICE HEAD OF ORGANISED CRIME DEAD

The investigator was also the Free State Head of Organised Crime. The police said the circumstances surrounding his death are under investigation.

“The SAPS management wishes not to discuss this matter in the public domain at this early stage. In-house Employee Health and Wellness experts have been dispatched to provide psychological services to the family and colleagues of the deceased member,” said the SAPS.

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According to EWN and eNCA, the officer died by suicide.

National police commissioner General Fannie Masemola said the deceased was a hard-working, loyal and dedicated detective with 31 years in the police service.

“Over the years, he has proven himself to be a highly skilled detective with a wealth of experience and knowledge in the detective environment. His departure leaves a void in the SAPS detective environment.”

Thabo Bester and his co-accused are due back in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court later this month.

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