Key Points:
- The Supreme Court of Appeal ruled that Dr. Magudumana’s deportation from Tanzania was lawful.
- The NPA plans to proceed with the scheduled 2025 trial.
- The case involves 38 criminal charges and remains under intense national scrutiny.
Court Upholds Legality of Tanzania Deportation
BLOEMFONTEIN, South Africa — On Friday, the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) rejected Dr. Nandipha Magudumana’s attempt to overturn her arrest and deportation from Tanzania. This marks a significant ruling in the Magudumana deportation appeal case.
Authorities arrested Magudumana and her partner, convicted murderer and rapist Thabo Bester, in April 2023 in Tanzania. The pair had fled South Africa following Bester’s staged death and dramatic escape from the Mangaung Correctional Centre. Notably, he allegedly received help from Magudumana.
NPA Welcomes Ruling, Focuses on Trial Preparation
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) responded positively to the SCA’s decision. It emphasized that the ruling supports the legitimacy of Magudumana’s return to face justice.
Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga, the NPA’s national spokesperson, acknowledged that one judge supported the appeal. However, he stressed that the majority ruling confirms the state’s position.
“Our prosecution team will now focus on trial preparation,” Mhaga said. “The trial is scheduled to run from July 21 to Sept. 19, 2025. It will take place at the Free State Division of the High Court in Bloemfontein.”
The NPA charged Magudumana and several co-accused with 38 offenses. These include fraud, money laundering, corpse violation, aiding an escape, arson, and obstructing justice.
National Focus on Justice and Accountability
The Magudumana deportation appeal case continues to attract widespread media coverage. This is due to the serious nature of the charges and the public figures involved.
According to Mhaga, “The NPA remains committed to delivering visible justice. These crimes affect not only the victims but also the public’s trust in our legal system.”
He added that the NPA will ensure the case moves forward without unnecessary delays. Moreover, it aims to uphold the rule of law with full transparency and fairness.
