The South African ambassador to France reportedly sent a distressing message to his wife before tragically falling from a 22nd-floor hotel room in Paris. Emmanuel Nkosinathi Mthethwa, 58, went missing and was later found deceased near the Hyatt Hotel in Porte Maillot. His wife raised the alarm after receiving the troubling message, prompting an investigation by the Paris prosecutor’s office.
Mthethwa had reserved a room on the 22nd floor, where the window was found to have been forced open. Details of the message he sent to his wife remain undisclosed. Police are conducting a thorough investigation, with a magistrate visiting the scene. Initial evidence suggests Mthethwa’s phone last pinged near Bois de Boulogne in Paris.
The late diplomat had recently attended a public event commemorating the Battle of Delville Wood in Longueval, Departement de la Somme. He had been serving at the French Embassy since February 2024 and held the position of South Africa’s permanent delegate to UNESCO. Prior to this role, Mthethwa served in various ministerial capacities within the South African government.
Authorities from South Africa and France have not made official statements regarding the incident. Attempts to reach the South African embassy in Paris have been unsuccessful. If you or someone you know needs support, the Samaritans offer 24/7 assistance via phone, email, or their website. Remember, your well-being matters.