SAPS Constable sentenced to life for murder and attempted murder in Glen Grey

35 year old former Constable Khetang Tefo Heisi, was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of then 38 year old Basheer Adam Yusuf. The murder occurred on 21 February 2014 on a public road between Queenstown and Dordrecht. At the time of offence the accused was 32 years old and he was stationed at Aliwal North Public Order Police (POPS). The accused was convicted by the same court on 14 July 2017.

It is alleged that the accused person, Constable Khetang Tefo Heisi, shot and killed his friend Basheer Adam Yusuf on 21 February 2014, after a drinking spree. During the incident, the accused was with Luxolo Bono and Nosipho Thomas, who was the girlfriend of the deceased. Nosipho was dropped-off by the accused just before he shot the deceased. The accused wanted to kill both witnesses after he shot the deceased, fortunately because it was already dark, they hid in the long grass and the accused could not see them.

The accused was arrested and was kept in custody. Whilst he was in custody, he committed a further offence of assault and he was charged and appeared in court on 26 January 2016. He was released on warning and he escaped from custody and was later rearrested. The assault case was investigated by SAPS and appeared in Whittlesea Magistrates Court where the accused escaped. Whilst he was out he continued to threaten witnesses including police officials. He was re-arrested on 20 June 2016.

The trial continued in Mthatha High Court. He was convicted and on 14 July 2017 he was sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, even though he was the first time offender.

Issued by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate

For inquiries, contact:
Mr Moses Dlamini - National Spokesman
012 399 0049 / 082 781 7112
mdlamini@ipid.gov.za