It is alleged the bodies were obtained with the purpose of aiding Thabo Bester’s escape from the Mangaung Correctional Centre in Bloemfontein.

One of the bodies was found in a river with the mortuary’s identification tag attached.

Provincial Health spokesperson Mondli Mvambi says they are aware of the allegations. However, as it is the subject of a police investigation, the department cannot comment on the matter.

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Bester and Magudumana were arrested in Tanzania on Friday 7 April. The news was confirmed by the Minister of Police, Bheki Cele, and the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed with all relevant authorities in Tanzania, including the National Commissioner of Police and Interpol, that the fugitives are being processed.

Bester escaped from the Mangaung Correctional Centre on 3 May 2022 when a fire "broke out" in his cell. He was serving a life sentence of 75 years for murder and rape. 

It was then reported that Bester committed suicide by setting his cell alight. However, it emerged that the body in the cell was not Bester's.

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 "A case of murder is under investigation following the outcome of the DNA analysis that confirmed that the body of the deceased, which was found, was not that of Thabo Bester".  

The autopsy report went on to further reveal that the deceased had died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head and was already dead prior to the arson incident.

OFM News