Team of SA police investigators being sent to France to work with authorities in probing death of Nathi Mthethwa

A team of South African police investigators is being sent to France to work with local authorities probing the death of Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa.

A five-officer team, led by Major General Bongani Maqhashalala, Deputy provincial commissioner for crime detection in the Western Cape, will work with French law enforcement to support a thorough and transparent inquest.

Minister Firoz Cachalia said the deployment reflects a commitment to establish the full facts surrounding the tragedy and to offer support to South African authorities abroad.

National Commissioner Fannie Masemola advised Cachalia on the move and the team will coordinate closely with the International Relations and Cooperation Department (DIRCO) as they liaise with French investigators.

Officers will assist in gathering information, examining circumstances around the death, and ensuring transparency throughout the inquest process.

Minister Cachalia has also conveyed condolences to the late ambassador Mthethwa's family.

READ: DIRCO relying on ongoing investigation to determine how South Africa's Ambassador to France died

"The deployment of these investigators reflects our 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 throughout the process," said spokesperson in the Ministry of Police, Kamogelo Mogotsi.

The team is due to leave soon, as South African and French authorities work to establish the circumstances surrounding his passing.

For now, the investigation continues, with both countries promising cooperation.