French Embassy in SA denies media reports SAPS officers refused entry to investigate death of late ambassador Nathi Mthethwa

Thabiso Goba

Thabiso Goba

30 November 2025 | 17:30

Mthethwa died in September after allegedly jumping to his death from the 22nd floor of a hotel in the French capital.

French Embassy in SA denies media reports SAPS officers refused entry to investigate death of late ambassador Nathi Mthethwa

FILE: Minister Nathi Mthethwa addressing Solomon Mahlangu family and Community members during the Wreath laying ceremony in Mamelodi West Cemetery. Picture: GCIS

The French Embassy in South Africa has denied media reports that SAPS officers were prevented from going to Paris and investigating the death of the late ambassador, Nathi Mthethwa.  

Mthethwa died in September after allegedly jumping to his death from the 22nd floor of a hotel in the French capital. 

READ: Senior SAPS officer set to leave SA to meet French investigators over Mthethwa's death

Shortly after his death, SAPS announced it was sending five experienced detectives to work with French authorities in investigating the ambassador's death.  

However, the Sunday Times recently reported that the team of detectives was refused entry into France.  

"The allegation that five South African police officers have been refused visas to enter France, in relation with the passing of Ambassador Mthethwa, is simply not true. Only one police officer submitted a request for visa that was quickly granted. The official was able to travel to Paris and was welcomed by French authorities," said French embassy spokesperson, Tristan Roussignol-Retif.

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