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DCS Denies Prison Pregnancy Rumours About Nandipha Magudumana

BLOEMFONTEIN — 5 September 2025

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) dismissed rumours that Nandipha Magudumana, jailed for alleged crimes with convicted murderer Thabo Bester, is pregnant.

Magudumana faces trial starting 10 November at Bloemfontein High Court for charges including allegedly helping Bester’s 2022 prison escape, fraud, and violating bodies. (court records)

DCS spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo denied social media claims about Magudumana’s pregnancy after an account named “MaMkhize” falsely stated he confirmed she was four months pregnant. (DCS statement)

The unverified post further claimed: “He added that a senior officer at the correctional centre where Nandipha Magudumana held has been placed on special leave with immediate effect” (unverified). It alleged Bester was “breathing heavy fire after hearing the news” and planned to sue DCS (unverified). (social media post)

Magudumana remains isolated at Bizzah Makhate prison’s hospital section. National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale confirmed her placement prevents contact with others and phone access. She receives the standard inmate diet but accesses an on-site beauty salon. (Commissioner Thobakgale)

Bester is held at Kgosi Mampuru C-Max prison in Pretoria while serving life sentences for 2011-2012 rape and murder convictions. (DCS)