Senior South African Police Officers Deployed to France to Aid Investigation into Ambassador Mthethwa’s Death

Johannesburg – A contingent of South African police officers has been sent to France to assist in the investigation into the death of Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa. This team will be led by Major General Albert Maqhashalala, the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection in the Western Cape.

Ambassador Mthethwa was found dead on 30 September 2025 in the inner courtyard of the Hyatt Regency hotel, a luxurious high-rise situated in the Porte Maillot district of Paris, France.

Reports from France indicate that the ambassador had booked a room on the 22nd floor of the Hyatt just one day after his wife, Philisiwe Buthelezi, reported him missing.

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While there are indications that suggest a possible suicide, Acting Police Minister Professor Firoz Cachalia stated that the team will work closely with French law enforcement to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ambassador Mthethwa’s death.

Professor Cachalia mentioned that, following advice from the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, a decision was made to deploy a team of five seasoned SAPS officials, headed by Major General Maqhashalala, to France.

This collaborative effort aims to support the ongoing inquiry and uphold the principles of justice and accountability.

Regarding the deployment, the acting minister remarked on Friday, 3 October 2025: “The dispatch of these investigators highlights our steadfast commitment to uncovering the full details surrounding this tragedy.”

“We will extend all necessary support to our partners in France and maintain continuous communication with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) throughout this process.”

Professor Cachalia also expressed his sincere condolences.

“We are deeply saddened by the sudden and untimely passing of Ambassador Mthethwa, a dedicated public servant and patriot who served our nation admirably in various capacities,” the acting police minister noted.

“Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.”

Meanwhile, the families of the late ambassador and his widow have expressed their gratitude for the involvement of South African police in the investigation.

“As the family, we welcome this development and genuinely appreciate the support of the South African Police Service in this vital matter,” stated Dr. Sfiso Buthelezi, the family spokesperson.

“We are hopeful that their participation will aid us in achieving the closure we desperately seek.”

The body of Ambassador Mthethwa is anticipated to be returned to South Africa next week.