Question NW1373 to the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
17 May 2023 - NW1373
Engelbrecht, Mr J to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
(1)With reference to the convicted rapist, Mr Thabo Bester, (a) what was done to ensure the safety and protection of the victims of the escaped convict and (b) on what exact date were each of them informed of the material risk posed to themselves and (c)(i) who informed the specified victims and (ii) via which medium; (2) (a) on what exact date was the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) informed of the circumstances, (b) who informed the NPA and (c) via which medium?
Reply:
(1)(a) As soon as the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) discovered that the offender had indeed escaped from lawful custody the matter was reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for investigation.
(1)(b) A case of escape was opened with the SAPS on the 12 January 2023. In addition a track and tracing team was established to re-enforce the tracing and re-arrest of the offender. None of the victims were informed of the escape in line with the General Procedure in relation to informing victims about offender/perpetrators who died, escaped from custody.
(1)(c) Not applicable.
(2) The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) was not informed directly by DCS. However, a criminal case was reported to the SAPS for further investigation and possible prosecution by the NPA.
END