Thabo Bester’s New Lawyer’s Criminal Past Unveiled
Thabo Bester, who has been at the center of a high-profile legal case, has enlisted the help of a new lawyer, Tsoeunyane Jeremiah Pela. However, Pela’s own criminal past has come to light, raising questions about his suitability as Bester’s advocate.
The Background: Thabo Bester’s Case and Virtual Court Requests
Thabo Bester and Dr. Nandipha have been the subject of virtual court appearances that have sparked a storm on social media. People are questioning whether the two individuals are still in South Africa or if they have managed to escape once again.
Also Read: ‘Can the Court prove this is Thabo Bester?’ Advocate Argues Bester’s Identity Case
Jeremiah Pela’s Criminal History
It has been revealed that Jeremiah Pela, the new advocate representing Thabo Bester, was apprehended in 2017 for engaging in fraudulent activities and corruption. He is currently facing trial for alleged corruption related to a bribery scandal in the security tender process at Motheo TVET College in Bloemfontein.
According to News24, Pela and another individual were accused of demanding a R1.2 million bribe from the security company’s CEO to prevent the cancellation of the company’s contract with Motheo. Pela and his co-accused were granted bail in May 2017.
Ironically, at the time of his arrest, Pela held the position of deputy chairperson on the Motheo TVET College council, the very institution for which he was arrested on fraud charges.
Also Read: ‘Pretty Priviledge?’ Thabo Bester and Dr Nandipha Get Conjugal Visits In Prison
Pela’s Defense Strategy
During Bester’s recent virtual court appearance, Pela raised doubts about the detainee’s identity, arguing that there was insufficient evidence to prove he was indeed Thabo Bester. Pela claimed that Bester’s identity had not been properly verified due to the absence of an ID card. He cited the case of Dr. Nandipha Magudumana, who had to reveal her face for identification purposes, and argued that Bester should receive the same treatment.
However, Magistrate Mohlolo Khabisi countered Pela’s argument by stating that Bester had previously appeared in court without concealing his face, and his identity had never been contested. The only evidence supporting the man’s identity as Bester was a medico-legal J88 form.
Also Read: In Pictures: Thabo Bester Wears R19 000 Burberry Hoodie To Virtual Court Appearance
Bester is scheduled to appear in court again on June 20th.
Thabo Bester’s choice of advocate, Jeremiah Pela, has raised eyebrows due to Pela’s own criminal history. Pela is currently facing trial for corruption charges. During Bester’s recent court appearance, Pela questioned the detainee’s identity, arguing that there was insufficient evidence to prove he was the real Bester. However, the magistrate countered Pela’s argument, stating that Bester’s identity had been established in previous court appearances. The case continues, with Bester’s next court date set for June 20th.