Dept hits back at Bester 'theatrics'

We're not moved or shaken by outbursts, says official.

- Vhahangwele Nemakonde

The department of correctional dismissed services has allegations of inhumane treatment in prison by convicted murderer and Facebook rapist Thabo Bester.

Bester appeared in the Free State High Court in Bloemfontein last week on charges relating to his alleged escape from Mangaung Correctional Centre in May 2022.

He appeared with his co-accused Dr Nandipha Magudumana and Zolile Sekeleni.

Bester's case has been postponed to 24 July.

Bester, who appeared without legal representation, told Judge Cagney Musi his rights were being violated at the Kgosi Mampuru C-Max Prison.

"The system that has been set up for me specifically is as if I have my own separate rules," said Bester.

He said he could not consult his legal representatives telephonically because he feared his conversations would be recorded.

"The national commissioner has taken the obligation of being in charge of me as an inmate. In that, all activities that involve Thabo Bester have a Thabo Bester Act, according to correctional services. This is the way I feel I'm being treated,” he said.