The South African ambassador to France tragically fell from a hotel in Paris after reportedly sending a distressing message to his wife. Emmanuel Nkosinathi Mthethwa, 58, disappeared before his body was found near the Hyatt Hotel in Porte Maillot. His wife raised the alarm, mentioning the troubling message she received from him. Mthethwa had booked a room on the 22nd floor, where the window was tampered with.
Authorities are investigating the incident, with a magistrate visiting the scene. Mthethwa’s phone was last traced near Bois de Boulogne, prompting a search operation. Despite using police dogs, he could not be located. Speculations of a potential suicide led to a search in the western Paris woods.
The late ambassador recently attended an event commemorating the Battle of Delville Wood. He had been serving as the South African ambassador to France since February 2024 and was the country’s UNESCO delegate. Previously, Mthethwa held ministerial positions in the arts, culture, and sports sectors.
No official statements have been made by South African or French officials regarding the tragic incident. The South African embassy in Paris was reportedly unresponsive. If you require support, The Samaritans can be reached at 116 123 or via email at jo@samaritans.org. Remember, you are not alone.