Prison Officials in Trouble For Allowing Thabo Bester To Wear Expensive Designer Sweater in Court
In an unexpected turn of events, prison officers find themselves in hot water for allowing Thabo Bester to showcase a pricey designer luxury brand sweater during his recent court appearance.
The Correctional Services Commissioner, Makgoth Samuel Thobakgale, revealed that an undisclosed number of officials will be facing disciplinary measures due to their role in permitting convicted murderer Thabo Bester to sport a white Louis Vuitton sweater valued at approximately R15 000 in court last week.
Thobakgale added that although accused individuals are permitted to wear personal clothing for court appearances, they should do so in a manner that demonstrates respect for the court.
Prison Officials Face Disciplinary Measures for Allowing Thabo Bester To Wear Brand Clothing
Speaking during an interview with eNCA’s Dr JJ Tabane on Monday night, Thobakgale expressed concerns about the inappropriate attire choices made by some defendants, emphasizing that these choices undermine the credibility of the criminal justice system. He emphasized the need to address this issue.
Thobakgale recounted that he personally cautioned Thabo Bester against wearing luxury brands in court and communicated the same warning to the officials on duty.
‘’I warned him (Bester) to respect the court, and those officials on duty were warned too, but Bester wore his sweater in court. I told him to respect the court. Those officials are facing disciplinary action,’’ Thobakgale commented.
Adding insult to injury, Bester’s girlfriend, Nandipha Magudumana, was seen donning a crisp-white Nike sweater.
Concerns Raised Over Inappropriate Attire Choices in Court
Every time the pair have made their court appearances, they have garnered attention for their lavish fashion choices. Many individuals interpret these choices as a display of arrogance and a lack of remorse, particularly towards the families of victims, including Katlego Bereng’s family.
Katlego Bereng tragically lost his life, and his charred remains were discovered in Bester’s cell, known as Cell 35. Despite their heartrending loss, Bereng’s family continues to attend court proceedings, driven by their quest for justice for their beloved family member, who left behind two young children.
Both Bester and Magudumana were arrested and brought back to South Africa after fleeing the country. Reports indicated that Bester managed to escape from the Mangaung Correctional Facility, which is overseen by G4S security.