Chesney Keppler’s alleged killer to reapply for bail, trial postponed to next year

Former police officer Mandla Buthelezi, accused of murdering Gauteng Traffic Warden Chesney Keppler, has told the Johannesburg High Court that he intends to apply for bail next month.

The matter, which was set down for a pre-trial hearing on Tuesday, has now been postponed to January 19th next year, when the trial is expected to begin.

Buthelezi appeared in court alongside his co-accused, Llewellyn Meyers, where his lawyer, Sphamandla Madinane, told the court that the 42-year-old plans to formally formally submit a new bail application in December.

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

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

Buthelezi remains in custody, while Meyers’s bail has been extended pending trial.

The Keppler family has welcomed the postponement, saying it brings them a step closer to justice, but they have strongly opposed the accused’s renewed bail bid.

With the trial now set for next year — nearly a year after Chesney Keppler’s death — her father, Trevor Keppler, said today’s developments mark an important step forward in their pursuit of justice.

He stressed that Buthelezi’s previous violation of bail conditions should weigh heavily when the court considers his new application.

Keppler told YNews that his daughter’s death has deprived the family of precious memories they were yet to make.

The trial date is expected to be confirmed after the provisional appearance on January 19th.

Written by: Lebohang Ndashe