Paris, France / Pretoria, South Africa – The South African government is dispatching a team of senior police investigators to Paris to assist in the ongoing probe into the mysterious death of Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa, whose body was discovered earlier this week at a city hotel.
Authorities confirmed that Mthethwa, 58, was found dead on Tuesday morning in the inner courtyard of the Hyatt Regency Hotel, after reportedly falling from the 22nd floor. French police immediately launched an investigation, and South African authorities have now joined efforts to ensure a comprehensive and transparent inquiry.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola announced that a team of five highly experienced investigators would travel to France to work alongside their French counterparts.
“Our officers will cooperate fully with the French authorities to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the ambassador’s death. We are committed to a transparent and thorough investigation,” Masemola said.
Mthethwa had been reported missing on Monday by his wife after she received what police described as a “worrying message” from him. According to a French prosecutor quoted by local media, the note contained an apology and expressed his intention to end his life, suggesting a possible suicide.
However, officials in both countries have not ruled out foul play, saying the investigation remains open until all forensic results and witness statements are reviewed.
Mthethwa, a prominent figure in South African politics, previously served as Minister of Police, Minister of Arts and Culture, and later as Ambassador to France. His career, however, was marred by controversy and political scandal.
He was a known ally of former President Jacob Zuma, who is currently facing corruption charges, and Mthethwa’s name had been mentioned in multiple judicial commissions investigating misconduct and abuse of power.
As Police Minister, Mthethwa presided over the 2012 Marikana massacre, one of South Africa’s darkest post-apartheid events, during which 34 striking miners were killed by police gunfire. The incident continues to cast a shadow over his legacy.
More recently, just two weeks before his death, Mthethwa was implicated in fresh testimony before the Madlanga Commission, a body investigating alleged political interference in policing.
During the hearings, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkwananzi accused Mthethwa of obstructing justice in a 2011 case, a claim that reignited scrutiny of his conduct in office.
The commission has not confirmed whether Mthethwa had been formally contacted or scheduled to testify.
Meanwhile, Mthethwa’s family remains in communication with South African and French officials as they await the completion of repatriation formalities to bring his remains home for burial.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has urged the public and media to respect the family’s privacy, as investigations continue into the ambassador’s final moments.
