eNCA’s Silindelo Masikane Wins Prestigious Sikuvile Journalism Award for Thabo Bester Investigation

Silindelo Masikane, a senior investigative journalist at eNCA, has been honored with the Standard Bank Sikuvile Award for her compelling investigative piece, “The Best Escape: Inside the Thabo Bester Scandal,” which unraveled the sensational escape of convicted criminal Thabo Bester and his accomplice Nandipha Magudumana. Silindelo Masikane, a distinguished investigative journalist and senior reporter for eNCA, has been awarded the prestigious Standard Bank Sikuvile Award for her remarkable story, “The Best Escape: Inside the Thabo Bester Scandal.” The accolade was presented on Saturday evening, July 20th, at the Standard Bank Sikuvile Journalism Awards (SBSJA) in Johannesburg.

Masikane’s investigative piece, entered in the “Hard News” category, delved into the dramatic escape of Thabo Bester, a convicted rapist and murderer, and his accomplice, Nandipha Magudumana. The story began when news broke that Bester had faked his death in a prison cell fire and was on the run with Magudumana.

Tasked with finding a unique angle under tight deadlines, Masikane’s innovative approach led her to the pair’s last known address in Johannesburg. There, she uncovered details of their luxurious life on the run, revealing how they managed to evade capture and ultimately flee the country.

Masikane’s story included exclusive interviews with Magudumana’s father and brother, providing insights into the duplicitous life led by Bester and Magudumana. The Sikuvile Awards judges commended her for producing journalism that was both captivating and insightful, significantly sparking public intrigue.

“We are immensely proud of Silindelo Masikane for this well-deserved recognition,” said Faith Daniels, eNCA Content Manager. “Her work exemplifies the power of investigative journalism.”

Masikane’s dedication to her profession is evident in her rigorous, compassionate, and humble approach to uncovering the truth. Over the years, her work has consistently demonstrated the crucial role of journalism in holding wrongdoers to account.

This award serves as a testament to Masikane’s persistence and skill in investigative reporting, highlighting the impact of quality journalism on society.