One cop represented SA in France to probe Mthethwa's death: SAPS

The French Embassy in South Africa has denied any claims of obstructing a probe into the death of ambassador Nathi Mthethwa.

This follows media reports that a group of South African police officers were prevented from going to Paris and investigating the matter.

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Mthethwa fell to his death from the 22nd floor of a Paris hotel in September at the age of 58.

South African police later announced the deployment of five experienced detectives to work with French authorities in investigating his death.

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

French Embassy spokesperson Tristan Roussigneol-Retif has denied reports of a lack of ooperation by French authorities.

“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. The French police has acted with cooperation and diligence with South Africa on the matter.

“There was never any intention on the French side to obstruct cooperation between French and South African police. On the contrary, it is in France’s interest to give a new impetus to the bilateral judicial cooperation.”

National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said, "We decided that only one [will] go, looking at cost containment measures. One went and came back.”