-Staff Writer /Fri, 30 January 2026
The convicted Facebook rapist and murderer Thabo Bester has been transferred to Embongweni Maximum Correctional Facility Centre in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).
The Department of Correctional Services has confirmed.
According to the Department Spokesperson, Singabakho Nxumalo, the transfer forms part of routine operational procedures guided by established security risk assessments aimed at ensuring the safety, security and stability of correctional facilities, as well as the broader criminal justice system. Nxumalo said offender transfers are standard practice and should not be interpreted as exceptional or punitive measures.
“Offender transfers are a routine practice guided by established security risk assessments to ensure the safety, security and stability of correctional facilities and the broader criminal justice system,” Nxumalo said.
Nxumalo further emphasised that despite the transfer, Bester’s rights remain fully protected in terms of the law.
“The offender will continue to receive appropriate care in line with applicable policies and legislative prescripts. He will also retain full access to legal representation, family communication and all court processes,” he added.
The department assured that all logistical arrangements have been put in place to ensure that Bester’s upcoming court appearances and ongoing legal proceedings are not disrupted.
“All necessary logistics will remain in place to ensure that court appearances and legal proceedings proceed without any form of disruption,” Nxumalo said.
The Department of Correctional Services reiterated its commitment to managing high-profile offenders within a secure and regulated framework, while upholding constitutional rights and maintaining public confidence in the criminal justice system.
Bester stand accused of plotting a prison break in Mangaung Correctional Facility Centre in Bloemfontein in the Free State. He alongside his girlfriend Dr Nandipha Magudumana and several others faces a slew of charges including fraud, violating a body, corruption, arson, assisting an inmate escape, harbouring and concealing an escaped prisoner, and defeating the ends of justice.
News Junction (Gold Standard)