Thabo Bester arrived at the Bloemfontein Magistrates court on Friday morning. A large police and correctional services contingent escorted him in. There was even one vehicle with two G4S guards there. It was surprising to see Thabo Bester still escorted by two of The G4S guards after their cameras failed to work during his escape. It is disgusting how this company is still allowed to work in SA after all that has happened.
Dressed in a clean Nike tracksuit, Bester tried to keep his cools as he entered the security tight dock. The infamous Bester tried hiding his face from the cameras but eventually gave up and faced up. He then started scanning around the courtroom as if he was desperately looking for someone. Maybe he was hoping to see his ‘ride or die’, Dr Nandipha. Asked if he has anything to say by SABC’s Chriselda Lewis, Bester just flashed a “scary smile” and ignored the journalist’s question. What I have noticed is that the man looks unbothered.
Bester had desired to address the court by himself, but his request was denied. His legal representative relayed that Bester has safety concerns. “He is in the custody of the very same institution…that on its own is reasons for concern of the accused safety. He has not eaten since incarcerated”, his legal representation told the court. The prosecution said they are surprised by Thabo Bester saying he is scared to eat the food while in jail because he has been eating it for the ‘8years’ he has been behind bars. Thabo Bester’s lawyer argued that he, like all any other accused deserves a speedy trial. He asked that Bester appear sooner than in a month’s time. However the court argued that in a month’s time the police investigation into Bester will not be completed.
Thabo Bester’s mother Maria Mabaso was watching proceedings with Slindile Masikane. She said to me that is definitely her son in the dock. She also said she feels sorry for him.
The case against has been postponed to May 16. He has been remanded in custody. He has abandoned bail but has indicated that he reserves his right to apply for it at an appropriate time.