Cop 'kills' makhwapheni: Victim's dad reveals all!

ELDORADO Park's unfolding tragedy.

Mandlekosi Gladman Buthelezi, the 42-year-old police officer accused of murder, allegedly had a history of abuse that led to the recent shocking incident.

The family revealed to Daily Sun that Buthelezi assaulted the victim three months ago outside her dad's home in Eldorado Park, south of Joburg, before her tragic death on 26 December at a friend's house.

Trevor Keppler, the father of the slain crime prevention warden Chesnay Keppler (22), revealed that his daughter had dated Buthelezi, though he disapproved of their relationship.

"She was very silent on this and that's what hurts me the most. I feel like I failed my daughter. If I was there, this was never going to happen," Trevor said.

ALSO READ | 'Rapist' man fathers child with girl (13)Opens in new window

The emotional dad said this outside the Protea Magistrates Court on Monday, 30 December, where Buthelezi was expected to appear.

However, he remains in hospital under police guard following a failed suicide attempt, where he grazed his head with a bullet.

State Advocate Sanele Ndevu informed the court that the accused has been detained at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto.

Consequently, the hearing has been postponed to 6 January 2025, pending Buthelezi's possible court appearance.

Trevor expressed his disappointment at the absence of the accused in court.

"He has changed my life forever. Our lives will never be the same. Our daughter never had a voice, I will be her voice now. There's nothing wrong with the accused, he should be here. When he committed this crime, he was okay," he said.

He said his daughter's friends are devastated by the incident.

According to police sources, the accused is not cooperating, displaying rude and demanding behaviour in the hospital.

They voiced concerns over his potential danger to himself, suggesting he might cause further harm if given the opportunity.

The Protea Magistrates Court was crowded with community members, eager to see justice served, expressing frustration towards the perceived failures of the SAPS and calling for the removal of the Eldorado Park Police Station commander.