Gauteng Police Sergeant to Stand Trial for Murder of Chesnay Keppler

High-stakes trial set for January as SAPS officer faces serious charges

The Johannesburg High Court will hear the trial of Sergeant Mandla Buthelezi, a Gauteng Police Services officer accused of murdering Crime Warden Chesnay Keppler, beginning 19 January 2026. Buthelezi, 43, faces multiple charges stemming from a shocking December 2024 incident in Eldorado Park.

His co-accused, 36-year-old SAPS officer Llewellyn Meyers, will also stand trial, facing a string of charges related to assault, attempted murder, and obstructing justice.

The Charges

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed that Buthelezi faces:

• One count of murder

• Attempted kidnapping

• Three counts of assault

• Malicious damage to property

• Defeating the ends of justice

Meyers is charged with:

• Two counts of assault

• Three counts of attempted murder

• Defeating the ends of justice

• Failing to report a crime

Buthelezi remains in custody and plans a new bail application on 2 December 2025, which the State intends to oppose. Meyers is out on bail and has lodged an interlocutory application under review.

What Happened on 26 December 2024

The tragic events unfolded during a party in Eldorado Park, where the two officers reportedly arrived in a marked police vehicle. A domestic altercation allegedly erupted after Buthelezi and Meyers discovered Keppler with another man.

During the confrontation, Keppler and several others were assaulted, prompting her to flee. Buthelezi allegedly pursued her to her home. Keppler reportedly locked herself inside, but Buthelezi allegedly attempted to force entry.

It is alleged that Buthelezi then fired several rounds from his service pistol through a house window, before fleeing the scene.

Meyers is accused of assaulting Keppler’s friends outside the property and firing at them as they escaped.

A Dramatic Arrest

The case took another alarming turn when Buthelezi reportedly attempted suicide during his arrest, resulting in his hospitalization at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital under police guard.

Public Reaction and Context

The incident sent shockwaves through Gauteng’s police and local communities, raising questions about domestic disputes involving law enforcement officers and the abuse of police power. Social media has been rife with speculation, criticism of SAPS oversight, and calls for justice for Keppler.

Legal analysts say the case could set a precedent in holding police officers accountable for crimes committed while on duty, particularly in domestic and social contexts.

The trial promises to be closely followed, not only for its dramatic circumstances but also for its potential impact on policing standards in Gauteng. Prosecutors and defense teams will face intense scrutiny as they navigate evidence, witness testimony, and ballistic reports from the scene.

Keppler’s tragic death and the alleged actions of two serving officers highlight the urgent need for robust accountability mechanisms within South African law enforcement.

The court has scheduled the first hearing for 19 January 2026, where both accused officers are expected to formally enter their pleas.

{Source: The Citizen}

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