The South African Police Service (SAPS) has sent a five-member team of investigators to Paris.
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia confirmed the deployment on Friday. The team will assist French authorities with the investigation.
The group is led by Major General Maqhashalala, Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection in the Western Cape.
INVESTIGATORS SEEK CLARITY AS FAMILY WAITS ANSWERS
Cachalia said the deployment will help uncover the circumstances of Mthethwa’s death.
“We are working with DIRCO and French authorities to ensure accountability. Our thoughts remain with Ambassador Mthethwa’s family and colleagues,” he said.
French police recently returned some of Mthethwa’s belongings to his widow, Philisiwe Buthelezi. The items included a cap, a coat and a remote control.
Officers also visited the ambassador’s residence in Paris. They briefed the family on progress in the case.
TRAGIC FALL UNDER INVESTIGATION
Mthethwa, 58, died on 30 September after falling from the 22nd floor of the Hyatt Regency hotel in Paris.
His death shocked South Africa. He had been serving as ambassador to France since 2024.
French police opened an inquest immediately. SAPS has now joined the process to strengthen the investigation.
