News24 | SA deploys 5 ‘seasoned’ cops to France to help probe Nathi Mthethwa’s death

Politician Emmanuel Nkosinathi 'Nathi' Mthethwa was found dead on Tuesday.

A team of South African police officers are being deployed to France to ensure that the circumstances surrounding the death of former minister and ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa “are thoroughly and transparently investigated”.

The police ministry announced in a statement on Friday that, following consultation with the relevant authorities, national police commissioner General Fannie Masemola decided to send the five “seasoned” police officers.

Mthethwa, 58, was found dead in a Paris hotel’s inner courtyard on Tuesday morning after falling from the 22nd floor.

“The deployed team will work closely with French law enforcement authorities to ensure that the circumstances surrounding Ambassador Mthethwa’s death are thoroughly and transparently investigated.

“This collaborative effort aims to support the ongoing inquest and uphold the principles of justice and accountability,” the ministry said.

READ | ‘We can’t tell you anything’: Silence and mystery in the Paris hotel where Mthethwa died

The team will be led by Major General Bongani Maqashalala, the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection in the Western Cape.

Acting Police Minister Professor Firoz Cachalia said the deployment of the investigators reflected on the ministry’s commitment to ensuring that every effort is made to establish the full facts surrounding this tragedy.

“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,” he said.

“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.”