Dr. Nandipha Magudumana just hit another legal wall—and this time, it’s from one of the highest courts in the land.

After trying to argue that her return from Tanzania to South Africa was illegal, the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) has officially shut that argument down.

It’s yet another twist in the high-profile saga involving the disgraced celebrity doctor and her infamous partner, convicted rapist and murderer Thabo Bester.

Arrested in Tanzania After Dramatic Escape

Back in April 2023, Magudumana and Bester were found hiding out in Arusha, Tanzania.

Their escape from South Africa had sparked a media frenzy, and their arrest made international headlines.

The couple had been on the run after Bester’s shocking prison break—where he faked his own death to flee jail.

Authorities swiftly moved to deport them, bringing them back to South Africa to face the consequences.

Her Legal Challenge? Denied Again

This isn’t the first time Magudumana tried to challenge the legality of her extradition.

In June 2023, the Bloemfontein High Court already rejected her argument.

Now, the SCA has done the same.

On Friday, 16 May, Justice Tati Makgoka delivered the decision, dismissing Magudumana’s appeal with costs—meaning not only did she lose, but she’ll have to pay for the legal battle too.

Focus Now Turns to the Trial in July

With this appeal out of the way, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) says all eyes are now on the upcoming trial.

Spokesperson Adv. Mthunzi Mhaga confirmed the case is set to proceed from 21 July to 19 September 2025 in the Free State High Court in Bloemfontein.

The charges? A whopping 38 counts that include fraud, corruption, money laundering, helping a prisoner escape, tampering with a corpse, arson, and obstructing justice.

The NPA Isn’t Holding Back

Mhaga made it clear that the prosecution team is laser-focused on moving the trial forward without any more unnecessary delays.

He stressed that the NPA is determined to make sure justice is not only done but also seen to be done—especially considering the severe impact these crimes had on public trust and the rule of law.

Could She Still Take It Further?

With the SCA’s decision, Magudumana’s options are getting slimmer.

But one question remains: Will she try to push this all the way to the Constitutional Court? That’s South Africa’s apex court and the last legal stop she could attempt.

For now, though, it looks like the legal system is finally catching up with her