By Everson Luhanga
- Five senior South African Police Service officers are flying to France to help investigate the sudden death of ambassador and former police minister Nathi Mthethwa.
- Ministry spokesperson Kamogelo Mogotsi said the investigators will work with French police to uncover the truth and give answers to Mthethwa’s family.
South Africa is sending a team of top police officers to France after the sudden death of ambassador Nathi Mthethwa.
Mthethwa, a former minister of police and long-serving cabinet member, died earlier this week while serving as South Africa’s ambassador to France. His death has shocked the country and sparked calls for a thorough investigation.
Police ministry spokesperson Kamogelo Mogotsi said: “The deployment of investigators is to ensure that the full facts surrounding Ambassador Mthethwa’s death are uncovered. We will work with the French police and give his family the answers they deserve.”
Police minister Firoz Cachalia confirmed that he has approved the deployment of five seasoned officers to Paris. The team will be led by Major General Maqhashalala, who is currently deputy provincial commissioner for crime detection in the Western Cape.
The officers are expected to link up with French authorities immediately and take part in the ongoing inquest. Mogotsi said the team’s work will be guided by principles of transparency and accountability.
General Fannie Masemola, the national commissioner of police, advised the minister on the deployment after consulting with French officials. Cachalia said he will stay in close contact with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation while the investigation continues.
The minister also sent his condolences to Mthethwa’s family, describing him as a patriot who served South Africa with distinction in many roles.
Mthethwa, who once held the powerful portfolio of police minister, was later appointed ambassador to France. His sudden death has now become the subject of an international investigation.
Pictured above: Nathi Mthethwa
Image source: GICS
