Government defends spending R1.4m on Bester return

CAPE TOWN - Government is justifying using a private jet to return Thabo Bester and Nandipha Magudumana.

The R1.4-million it cost to bring back the convicted rapist and murderer, has sparked outrage.

READ: Thabo Bester | R1.4m spent to fetch Bester, Magudumana

Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi said bringing Bester and Magudumana back to the country was an urgent matter.

It comes as reports emerge of Bester's lavish lifestyle behind bars.

READ: Thabo Bester | Implicated individuals will be held accountable - Lamola

He's also alleged to have been in and out of prison on luxurious getaways.

The Department of Correctional Services says it’s still looking into these allegations.

* eNCA’s Aviwe Mtila reports.