ALSO READ – Breaking News: Bester and girlfriend back in South Africa

Bester and Magudumana were arrested in Tanzania last week and they arrived back in the country on Thursday morning 13 April 2023. Lipholo was arrested on Tuesday 11 April. The state's prosecutor Sello Matlhoko is set to oppose their bail applications.

ALSO READ – Thabo Bester's escape: More suspects arrested

Bester and Magudumana were arrested after being on the run, almost a year after the escape of Bester from the Mangaung Prison in May 2022. Bester is likely to face charges of escaping from lawful custody and murder, among others. Magudumana will also face five charges, including murder, defeating the ends of justice, arson, and fraud.

The case has been postponed to 17 April 2023.

This is to allow for these suspects to appear together with Magudumana's father, Zolile Sekeleni (65), and former G4S security officer, Senohe (39).

Sekeleni and Matsoara both appeared in court on Tuesday 11 April 2023 and they were both remanded in custody.

ALSO READ: Thabo Bester accomplices remanded in custody – VIDEO

These two men are charged with murder, arson, fraud, and defeating the ends of justice. They are also accused of helping Bester escape.

On Wednesday 12 April 2023, the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services, heard how Bester was moved to cell 35, despite it not being approved, from where he made his escape.

ALSO READ: Bester was moved to cell 35 despite pending approval

The cell is allegedly in a blind spot and near an emergency exit.

Meanwhile, the ministers responsible for Justice and Correctional Services and Police, Ronald Lamola and Bheki Cele, announced that they are grateful to all the roleplayers in this matter thus far.

"This includes state agencies and members of the public who have shared information that has assisted in the detention of the two fugitives, following an extensive manhunt. Thus far there is considerable progress with several arrests being effected," Lamola and Cele added.

OFM News