Buthelezi murder trial delayed again as State cites witness unavailability

The murder trial of former police constable, Mandla Buthelezi, who is accused of killing Gauteng traffic warden, Chesney Keppler, has been postponed once again after the State informed the Johannesburg High Court that key witnesses were not yet available to testify.

The matter was expected to finally get underway on Monday following a series of delays, including an April postponement after Buthelezi’s legal representative was hospitalised following a motor vehicle accident.

Buthelezi stands accused of fatally shooting Keppler in Eldorado Park in April 2024, allegedly using his service firearm during a domestic dispute.

His co-accused, Llewellyn Meyers, faces charges including attempted murder and defeating the ends of justice.

When the matter was called before the Johannesburg High Court, State prosecutor, Maphile Molefe, requested a further postponement, telling the court that witnesses had only been subpoenaed to appear from Tuesday.

“The position in this matter is that we were supposed to start with this matter today. Yes. The position is that we are unable to start today because of the fact that witnesses were subpoenaed by the investigating officer for tomorrow. Yes. So we will I would I would request the court indulgency that we commence with this trial tomorrow.”

The State is expected to rely on several admissions, including post-mortem and ballistic evidence, in an effort to streamline proceedings. The trial is expected to run for between five and ten days.

Buthelezi remains behind bars after being denied bail, while Meyers remains out on bail.

The latest postponement adds to the frustration from Keppler’s family, who have repeatedly expressed concern over the delays and their impact on the pursuit of justice.

The court is expected to hear the formal charges and begin hearing evidence when the matter resumes on Tuesday.

Written by: Lebohang Ndashe