Thabo Bester given ID documents - Motsoaledi

Motsoaledi made the announcement during a media providing an update on the issuing of an ID card to Thabo Bester on Monday.

Bester’s identity has been the source of much speculation since he was brought back to South Africa from Tanzania last month following his escape from a prison in Mangaung last year.

During his latest court appearance in Bloemfontein last week, Bester’s lawyer asked the court to allow his client to physically appear in court, rather than through a video link, to allow him to establish his true identity.

Motsoaledi told members of the media that the department conducted an extensive investigation which included interviewing the biological mother of Thabo Bester, namely Meisie Maria Mabaso (born Bester).

“The investigation also involved reviewing the birth records of Thabo Bester at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital and data stored in the DHA systems.

“The outcome of the investigation revealed that despite Thabo Bester having attained the age 16 years, he has not applied for an identity card as required in terms of the law.”

This follows after engagements with Bester and the department to have relevant officials assist him in his application for an identity card in a letter on Monday last week.

“Thabo Bester was issued with the identity card on Wednesday, 17 May 2023,” Motsoaledi said.

“His name has now been entered into the National Population Register, thus ending many years of his status as an unidentifiable person. I have obtained the permission of Thabo Bester to show you a copy of his identity card.”

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