Chesney Keppler murder case postponed, family says it’s a ‘delay tactic’

The family of 22-year-old Gauteng Crime Prevention Warden, Chesney Keppler who was allegedly killed by her boyfriend, say the postponement of the case, is a delay tactic.

Mandla Buthelezi, is accused of killing Keppler, after a dispute in December last year.

The former police officer appeared briefly in the Johannesburg High Court on Friday for a pre-trial hearing, but proceedings were delayed due to administrative issues, as the 42-year-old finalizes legal insurance arrangements for his newly appointed lawyer.

He faces multiple charges, including murder, attempted murder, attempted kidnapping, assault, and defeating the ends of justice.

Buthelezi appeared tense and visibly agitated in the dock while his co-accused, Constable Llewelyn Meyers, remained composed.

Meyers faces charges of attempted murder, assault, failing to report a crime, and obstructing an Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) investigation, while Buthelezi is accused of firing the fatal shot that killed Keppler.

Buthelezi’s legal team requested the postponement to clarify whether his legal insurance will cover his representation costs. Presiding, Judge Thembi Bokako, emphasized the need to resolve the issue now to avoid further disruptions once the trial begins.

The 42-year-old Buthelezi will remain in custody, while Meyers — who is out on R4,000 bail — will remain free after his bail was extended.

Meanwhile the 22-year-old’s father, Trevor Keppler, told YNews that seeing Buthelezi in court was gut-wrenching, forcing the family to relive the trauma of Chesney’s death.

Buthelezi was granted R20,000 bail by the Protea Magistrate’s Court in August, but was rearrested a month later for allegedly violating bail conditions by intimidating state witnesses.

The former police sergeant will remain in custody until his next court appearance on 4 November.

Written by: Lebohang Ndashe