Brigadier Jackson Mkhaulesi, the seasoned investigator and Free State Head of Organised Crime, died on Monday, 5 June. Image: SAPS.
Five things to know about Thabo Bester investigator death
The death of Brigadier Mkhaulesi, an investigator in the Bester case, sparked speculation and raised questions about the investigation.
Brigadier Jackson Mkhaulesi, the seasoned investigator and Free State Head of Organised Crime, died on Monday, 5 June. Image: SAPS.
The unexpected death of Brigadier Jackson Mkhaulesi, an investigator in the Thabo Bester escape case, sent shockwaves through South Africa on Monday.
1. Death of Brigadier Jackson Mkhaulesi
- Free State Head of Organised Crime, Brigadier Jackson Mkhaulesi, died on Monday, 5 June, in a suspected suicide in Bloemfontein.
- Mkhaulesi was the lead investigator in the Thabo Bester case, which adds speculation about the impact of his death on the ongoing investigation.
READ: Investigator in Thabo Bester escape case allegedly dies by suicide
2. Possible Suicide or Murder?
- Reports suggest that Mkhaulesi died by suicide, with allegations that he took his own life hours after attending court for an appearance related to the case.
- However, the police have not confirmed the suicide allegations, saying the circumstances surrounding his death were under investigation.
- If Mkhaulesi was murdered, a Free State representative of police union SAPU said that it should be treated as treason, according to The Sowetan.
READ: Dr Nandipha to appeal Bloemfontein High Court judgement
3. Impact on the Ongoing Investigation
- Despite the loss of Mkhaulesi, the police union representative believes it is unlikely to significantly affect the case.
- According to SAPS protocol, investigators do not work on the case file alone, reducing the potential impact of his passing.
- The case involving Thabo Bester and his co-accused is scheduled to continue on 25 June.
READ: Update: Thabo Bester cop ‘shot himself’ on busy road
4. Tribute to Brigadier Jackson Mkhaulesi
- National police commissioner General Fannie Masemola described Mkhaulesi as a hard-working, loyal, and dedicated detective with 31 years of experience.
- Mkhaulesi’s death leaves a void in the SAPS detective environment, highlighting his significant contributions throughout his career.
READ: Took his life or taken out? Questions over Thabo Bester cop suicide
5. What’s next in the Thabo Bester Case?
- Dr. Nandipha Magudumana, one of the co-accused in the Thabo Bester case, intends to appeal the dismissal of her urgent application to have her arrest declared unlawful.
- Magudumana is yet to apply for bail, and the next court appearance for Bester and his co-accused is set for 25 June.
READ: Nandipha Magudumana’s arrest challenge dismissed
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