From Criminal to Victim? Thabo Bester’s Torture Claims Divide Social Media
A viral video featuring Thabo Bester, a convicted criminal, claiming torture while serving his sentence at Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre has set social media abuzz. Thabo Bester, known for his daring prison escape in 2022, was filmed through his cell door at the high-security C-Max prison during an official media walkabout. The clip, which captured his allegations, has evoked strong and polarizing responses from netizens.
Viral Video Exposes Thabo Bester’s Allegations of Torture Behind Bars
The National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Makgothi Thobakgale, led the prison inspection when he stopped outside Thabo Bester’s cell, which is under constant surveillance.
Journalists present during the walkabout questioned whether Thobakgale had obtained Thabo Bester’s permission to film, to which he responded dismissively, stating,
“There’s no need to ask him for permission to come do my work. But if you want to interview him, then you have to ask.”
In a surprising moment, Thabo Bester’s voice can be heard in the video, exclaiming,
“Just like being tortured. You don’t ask for permission.”
Thabo Bester declined to speak to the media and claimed to have submitted an official letter detailing his grievances to the prison authorities.
Watch the video below
Inside his prison cell, Thabo Bester sat on the bed reading a book, with other books scattered on the bed.
When media asked the Commissioner if he had consented to being filmed, he shouted "Just like being tortured. You don’t ask for permission"
Full story on @Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/CYhLKwfxJF
— Linda Mnisi (@LindA_MniSii) July 13, 2023
National Commissioner Refutes Thabo Bester Torture Claims
National Commissioner Thobakgale firmly denied Bester’s claims, asserting that the issue of torture had not been raised during their interactions.
He stated,
“He doesn’t look like someone who is being tortured. My understanding is that the environment itself is not one he is happy with. But this is for his security.”
Mzansi Reacts to Thabo Bester’s Torture Claims
In response to the video, public opinion has been divided. Many social media users expressed skepticism, highlighting the irony of Bester’s plea for consent after his history of fraudulent activities. Some comments underscored the belief that he had forfeited his right to consent by compromising others.
Check out some of the reactions;
@srgntOrpeanut;
Wonder if he ever asked his victims for permission or is it like everything in this country, take take take and no give
@Just_Gail;
Seems this is the first time he’s actually in prison 😀 It must be real torture for someone like him..
@mamgolo B;
What permission, ke mmolai se seo!
@chillsmoch;
He lost his freedom when he compromised others. Why should he consent.
@Noxza_dube;
The burnt body did not consent either so we call it karma Drama king this one…