Convicted killer and rapist Thabo Bester has been transferred to eBongweni Super Maximum Correctional Facility in KwaZulu-Natal, widely regarded as South Africa’s highest security prison.

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) confirmed that Bester was moved from the Kgosi Mampuru C Max facility in Pretoria. His legal team reportedly became aware of the transfer through a family friend who was planning to visit him.

DCS spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said the transfer formed part of routine offender management procedures guided by security risk assessments.

“The Department of Correctional Services confirms the transfer of offender Thabo Bester to eBongweni Super Maximum Correctional Facility,” Nxumalo said. “Offender transfers are routine and informed by established security risk assessments to ensure the safety, security and stability of correctional facilities and the broader criminal justice system.”

Nxumalo added that Bester would continue to receive appropriate care in line with legislation and policy, and would retain full access to legal representation, family communication and court processes. He also confirmed that logistical arrangements remain in place to ensure court appearances proceed without disruption.

Bester was previously held at the Mangaung Correctional Facility, from which he made a high-profile escape in May 2022 while serving a life sentence. He was re-arrested and returned to South Africa in April 2023. His escape allegedly involved the assistance of Dr Nandipha Magudumana, who has since been challenging her repatriation through the courts.

Murder-accused businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala is also reportedly being held at the eBongweni facility.

During court appearances in December last year, Bester applied for access to documents from the Presidency and Crime Intelligence, as well as cellphone records linked to the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, in preparation for his trial. He has also approached the Pretoria High Court seeking funding for his legal representation.

Bester and his co-accused — including Magudumana, Senohe Matsoara, Zolile Sekeleni, Teboho Liphoko, Buti Masukela, Tieho Makhotsa, Zanda Moyo and Joel Makhetha — face multiple charges, including fraud, corruption, assisting an inmate to escape, violation of a body, arson and defeating the ends of justice.

The matter is scheduled to be heard in the Bloemfontein High Court in March 2026.