Dr Nandipha Magudumana, who was once held in high esteem as a prominent doctor and entrepreneur, now finds herself embroiled in a controversy that has captivated the nation.
Netflix’s new true crime documentary series, Beauty And The Bester, is set to debut on 12 September. It delves into her chaotic and ill-fated association with convicted rapist and murderer Thabo Bester.
DR NANDIPHA MAGUDUMANA’S INVOLVEMENT WITH THABO BESTER
This three-part series reveals how Dr Magudumana’s seemingly idyllic life deteriorated after her connection with Bester, as highlighted by Netflix.
In a notorious incident, Bester escaped from Mangaung Maximum Security Prison in 2022 by simulating his death in a cell fire.
The documentary recounts a sequence of staged celebrity events and lavish lifestyles, culminating in a viral photograph of the duo shopping together at Sandton City. This image sparked a massive manhunt.
DR NANDIPHA MAGUDUMANA AND BESTER EXTRADITED
Thabo Bester, infamously dubbed the ‘Facebook Rapist’ for ensnaring victims through social media, evaded capture for almost a year before being taken into custody in Tanzania in April 2023.
Authorities arrested him along with Dr Magudumana, who was viewed as his accomplice. They were both extradited back to South Africa, sparking widespread astonishment and disbelief.
COURTROOM FOOTAGE AND INTERVIEWS
Footage from the courtroom and exclusive investigative content shed light on the peculiar connection between a well-respected doctor and one of South Africa’s most infamous criminals.
Interviews with friends and family will reveal their shock and sadness.
They grapple with understanding how Dr Magudumana, a married mother of two who reportedly abandoned her family, became enmeshed in Bester’s deceitful schemes.
Evidence from police records and court proceedings indicates that Dr Magudumana chose to leave with Bester, abandoning her children and her lawful spouse, Lt Colonel Tieho Flyman.
TWISTED LOVE
Flyman, an investigator, described her as a willing partner, who dismissed claims of abduction or coercion.
“She chose to be with Bester,” he stated, underscoring her involvement in the escape plan.
The documentary further examines the couple’s fraudulent business endeavors, including a fictitious property venture.
BEAUTY AND THE BESTER
Their initial encounter took place in 2006 within the halls of the University of the Witwatersrand, leading to a dramatic unfolding of events. Their capture abroad left many stunned.
Beauty And The Bester pledges to unveil a narrative of manipulation.
It narrates a tale of love turned toxic and of corruption, prompting South Africa to reflect on how such a grim chapter unfolded right before their eyes.
Beauty And The Bester will deeply resonate with South Africans still reeling from the consequences of this real-life drama that disrupted their sense of safety and justice.
