Inside eBongweni Supermax: Why Thabo Bester and ‘Cat’ Matlala Are held at South Africa’s most feared prison
eBongweni Supermax houses SA’s most dangerous inmates
South Africa’s eBongweni Super Maximum Correctional Facility has once again come into national focus following the transfer of convicted killer and rapist Thabo Bester to the ultra-secure prison in KwaZulu-Natal. The move places Bester among the country’s most dangerous and high-profile inmates, including murder-accused businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
The transfer, confirmed by the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), underscores the state’s tightening grip on offenders considered extreme security risks and highlights the growing role of eBongweni as the country’s ultimate containment facility.
What Is eBongweni Super Maximum Correctional Facility?
eBongweni Super Maximum Correctional Facility, commonly referred to as eBongweni Supermax, is South Africa’s highest-security prison, designed to house inmates deemed violent, dangerous, or escape risks. Located near Kokstad in KwaZulu-Natal, the facility operates under strict isolation and surveillance protocols.
Authorities have consistently declined to release detailed operational information, citing security concerns. However, court testimony and legal challenges have revealed that inmates are often confined to their cells for up to 23 hours a day, with limited movement and tightly controlled communication.
Why Thabo Bester Was Moved to eBongweni Supermax
The DCS confirmed that Thabo Bester was transferred from Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre in Pretoria following routine security risk assessments.
DCS spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo stated that offender transfers are guided by established procedures aimed at ensuring the safety, security, and stability of correctional facilities and the broader criminal justice system.
Bester, who infamously escaped from Mangaung Correctional Facility in May 2022 with alleged assistance from Dr Nandipha Magudumana, has since been classified as a high-risk inmate. His escape exposed major flaws in prison oversight and remains one of the most high-profile correctional failures in South Africa’s history.
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Bester’s Ongoing Legal Battles
Since being returned to South Africa in April 2023, Bester has remained at the centre of complex legal proceedings. During court appearances in December, he requested access to documents from the Presidency, Crime Intelligence, and cellphone records linked to International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola, arguing they were necessary to prepare his defence.
He has also applied to the Pretoria High Court for state funding to support his legal representation. Bester and several co-accused face charges including fraud, corruption, assisting an inmate to escape, arson, violating a body, and defeating the ends of justice. Their case is set to return to the Bloemfontein High Court in March 2026.
‘Cat’ Matlala’s Detention Raises Fair Trial Concerns
Murder-accused businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala was transferred to eBongweni in December 2025 as part of heightened security measures for high-risk detainees.
However, Matlala’s detention has sparked controversy. His lawyer, Anneline van den Heever, told the Johannesburg High Court that access to her client had become “a nightmare,” significantly affecting trial preparation.
She alleged that consultations occur behind thick glass, with poor audio, heavy monitoring, and frequent cancellations. Van den Heever warned that these conditions threaten Matlala’s constitutional right to a fair trial.
The State clarified that the transfer decision was made solely by DCS, not prosecutors.
Why eBongweni Supermax Matters in South Africa’s Justice System
eBongweni represents the state’s final line of defence against escape risks and organised crime figures. Its use has intensified amid public pressure to prevent repeat prison failures following the Bester escape scandal.
Yet the facility also raises important legal questions about detainee rights, legal access, and trial fairness, particularly when suspects are held far from the courts hearing their cases.
As more high-profile inmates are sent to eBongweni, scrutiny of its role in balancing security and justice is expected to grow.
FAQ
What is eBongweni Super Maximum Correctional Facility?
eBongweni Supermax is South Africa’s highest-security prison, designed to house extremely dangerous and high-risk inmates.
Where is eBongweni Prison located?
The prison is located near Kokstad in KwaZulu-Natal, far from major urban centres.
Why was Thabo Bester transferred to eBongweni?
Authorities classified Bester as a high-risk inmate due to his previous escape and the seriousness of his charges.
Who else is being held at eBongweni Supermax?
Murder-accused businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala is also detained at the facility.
What are conditions like inside eBongweni Prison?
According to legal testimony, inmates may be confined for up to 23 hours a day, with limited movement and heavily monitored consultations.
Does detention at eBongweni affect court cases?
Lawyers argue that distance, restrictions, and monitoring can hamper trial preparation and may raise fair-trial concerns.
Is eBongweni used for convicted prisoners or suspects?
The facility houses both convicted offenders and high-risk accused individuals awaiting trial.
