One of the investigators into the Thabo Bester escape saga has died.
This was confirmed by the National Police Commissioner of South Africa, General Fannie Masemola.
The senior officer was also the Provincial Head responsible for Organised Crime in the Free State.
According to several sources, the officer had taken his own life, but police said the circumstances surrounding his death remain the subject of a police investigation.
Spokesperson Athlenda Mathe says the officer was a hard-working and loyal detective with 31 years of uninterrupted service in the police.
“Over the years he has proven himself to be a highly skilled detective with a wealth of experience and knowledge in crime detection. His departure leaves a void in the SAPS detective environment. On behalf of the SAPS, our sincerest condolences to our officer's family, friends and colleagues, " said General Fannie Masemola.
The identity of the deceased member will be released once all his family members have been notified.
Thabo Bester made international headlines when he faked his death at the Mangaung Correctional Services in a daring escape that was described as something out of a Hollywood film.
Bester has since been re-arrested and is currently in custody alongside his girlfriend, Dr Nandi Magudamana and five other accused.
