South Africa has deployed a specialised investigation team to France following the tragic death of Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa, who allegedly jumped from a 22nd-floor Paris hotel room window earlier this week.
Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia announced the deployment of five seasoned officers from the South African Police Service (SAPS) to assist French law enforcement authorities in investigating the circumstances surrounding the former Police Minister’s untimely death.
Mthethwa’s death comes amid his recent implication in the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. During testimony, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi alleged that, while serving as police minister, Mthethwa attempted to influence former Inspector-General of Intelligence Faith Radebe to drop charges against Richard Mdluli, the former head of police crime intelligence.
The investigative team will be led by Major General Maqhashalala, Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection in the Western Cape, following a decision made in consultation with relevant authorities and on the advice of National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola.
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The deployment represents a collaborative effort between South African and French law enforcement to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation into Ambassador Mthethwa’s death. The team will support the ongoing inquest while working closely with their French counterparts.
“The deployment of these investigators reflects our commitment to ensuring that every effort is made to establish the full facts surrounding this tragedy,” Minister Cachalia stated. “We will offer all necessary support to our counterparts in France and remain in close contact with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) throughout the process.”
The sudden loss has sent shockwaves through South Africa’s diplomatic and political circles. Ambassador Mthethwa served the nation in various capacities throughout his career, including his tenure as Police Minister before his diplomatic appointment to France.
Minister Cachalia expressed the government’s grief over the loss: “We are devastated by the sudden and untimely passing of Ambassador Mthethwa, a dedicated public servant and patriot who served our nation with distinction in various capacities. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.”
