Thembi Simelane Highlights Progress on Extradition Cases Involving SA

Minister Simelane emphasized that these efforts are part of the department's broader mission to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.

Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Thembi Simelane, announced on Friday that her department is making significant strides in handling Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters and Extradition requests involving South Africa. Speaking at a media briefing, Minister Simelane reaffirmed the government's commitment to fulfilling treaty and extradition obligations to ensure justice is served in all relevant cases.

Key developments include ongoing efforts to extradite Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife from Malawi, as well as the Gupta brothers, Atul and Rajesh, from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Both cases have faced numerous challenges, but the Minister assured the public that the department remains steadfast in its pursuit of accountability, with teams working diligently through diplomatic and legal channels.

Prophet Shepherd Bushiri fled South Africa while on bail for fraud and money laundering charges, while the Gupta brothers are accused of profiting from their close connections with former President Jacob Zuma and exerting undue influence in government affairs.

Additionally, the Minister addressed the case involving the murders of rapper Kiernan 'AKA' Forbes and his friend Tebello 'Tibz' Motsoane in Durban in February last year. The Manzini Magistrate's Court in Eswatini has granted the extradition of Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande, who were arrested in connection with the murders. The Ndimande brothers were apprehended in Mbabane and have been in police custody.

Minister Simelane emphasized that these efforts are part of the department's broader mission to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.