The newly appointed lawyer of the convicted Facebook rapist and murderer Thabo Bester has raised concerns over the alleged ill-treatment of his client.

Bester and his girlfriend, co-accused Nandipha Magudumana, appeared before the Bloemfontein High Court for a pre-trial hearing on Wednesday, along with seven co-accused.

During court proceedings, state lawyer Adv. Amanda Bester said Bester declined his meal in the morning. Bester's legal representative, Mohamed Seedat, argued that his client is diabetic and his health condition was not taken into consideration with the breakfast provided to him.

He added his client was also denied phone calls to his legal representatives and access to his clothing when attending court proceedings. Adv. Bester said Seedat and his client met for the first time this morning.

The accused Nandipha Magudumana greets her co-accused dad, Zolile Sekeleni, in court. Photo: Heidré Malgas 

“We cannot interfere with the protocol of phone calls because the accused can call other people and commit further crimes. The issue of food has to be dealt with by correctional services. My lord, accused seven has a previous conviction even though he’s also appearing in this matter,” she said.

Seedat told the presiding officer his client was being targeted. He said the person serving his client was unsure whether the food came from the police or Correctional Services.

Zimbabwean National Zando Moyo in court having a conversation with Thabo Bester. Photo: X

The pre-trial was postponed to 5 June 2024, following the recusal of three defence lawyers and the appointment of new legal representatives for accused 7, 8, and 9. 

The bail of Senohe Matsoara, Zolile Sekeleni (Magudumana’s dad), Teboho James Lipholo, Motanyane John Masukela, Teiho Frans Makhotsa and Thabang Joel Makhetha was extended. 

Bester, Magudumana and Zando Moyo remain in custody.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg