SAPS Absence at Keppler’s funeral ‘unjustified’ – Lesufi

SAPS absence at Keppler’s funeral ‘unjustified’ – Lesufi

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has criticised the police’s lack of presence at the funeral of Chesnay Patricia Keppler, citing that they are the appropriate authorities to answer unanswered questions.

Panyaza Lesufi at Keppler funeral
X: @GautengProvince

Lesufi said the law enforcement missed an opportunity to clarify things with the Keppler family and the Eldorado Park community.


“I strongly believe the South African law enforcement have missed an opportunity to be here today and face the family,” Lesufi said.

"Their absence adds to the misery, pain and their absence must not be encouraged.”


On Saturday, Eldorado Park residents alongside Gauteng Traffic Wardens filled the Dan Mateman Hall to bid farewell to Keppler.


The slain Gauteng Traffic Warden was fatally shot, on Boxing Day, allegedly by her police officer boyfriend who has since been arrested.


Police allege that the sergeant, while on duty and allegedly intoxicated, visited his off-duty girlfriend. 


Following an altercation where he allegedly assaulted her and her friends, the women reportedly escaped and barricaded themselves inside the house.


The sergeant who then allegedly discharged his service weapon through the kitchen window, fatally injuring Keppler, fled the scene.

Keppler was declared dead upon arrival at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital.


At the memorial service, Lesufi was joined by the city’s Transport MMC Kenny Kunene and Gauteng Community Safety MEC Faith Mazibuko.

During his address, Kunene praised Lesufi for employing the coloured community in the Traffic Wardens initiative.


“When you announced the recruitment of traffic wardens, the president ( PA President Gayton Mckenzie) and I asked to see you and we said to you, where are coloured people going to be in this recruitment – can you also employ coloured people, and Premier you said you don’t have to worry they are going to be part of this programme,” said Kunene.


He also called on law enforcement to act and restore order and stability in the area.


“The people of Eldorado Park are not asking for much, they are asking to live in peace; to be free from criminals and racial discrimination.”


Meanwhile, the residents of Eldorado Park have united in demanding the removal of the current station commander, Brigadier Mkhacani Maluleke, citing his incompetence in addressing widespread crime in the area.


The 44-year-old arrested police officer is currently under police guard at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital after sustaining a self-inflicted gunshot from his failed suicide attempt.


He is due to physically appear at the Protea Magistrate Court on Monday after he appeared in absentia on 30 December.


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