Key Points:
- Two Mpumalanga police officers were sentenced for attempted murder after firing at a suspect’s vehicle in 2020.
- The eMalahleni court imposed strict sentences with no firearm rights.
- SAPS leadership reaffirmed the need for accountability in law enforcement.
Court Convicts Mpumalanga Officers in 2020 Pursuit Case
EMALAHLENI, South Africa — The eMalahleni Regional Court sentenced two Mpumalanga police officers for attempted murder and assault. This followed a high-speed chase that occurred on May 11, 2020.
Sergeant Louise Venter, 43, and former Sergeant Stefaans Breytenbach, 42, each received five years for attempted murder. In addition, the court handed them 18 months for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. The judge issued the sentences on May 22, 2025, and did not allow the option of a fine.
High-Speed Chase Leads to Gunfire and Assault
According to police spokesperson Lt. Col. Jabu Ndubane, the officers participated in a roadblock operation on the N4 near Balmoral. During the operation, a motorist reportedly ignored signals to stop. Consequently, the officers initiated a high-speed pursuit.
“During the chase, the officers reportedly fired multiple rounds at the vehicle,” Ndubane said. “Eventually, the vehicle came to a stop.”
After stopping the car, the officers allegedly assaulted the driver. Authorities opened a criminal case the same day at Vosman Police Station. Both officers were stationed there at the time.
Trial Outcome and Firearm Ban
Investigators collected evidence and brought charges against the officers. Authorities then arrested them and released them on bail while the trial proceeded.
The court found both officers guilty. As a result, it ruled that the two Mpumalanga police officers sentenced may no longer possess firearms. In addition, the court denied their request to appeal the verdict.
Breytenbach resigned from the South African Police Service in November 2022. He had rejoined the force in 2017 and served for five years. Venter, however, continued to serve until her sentencing.
Leadership Reaction: Upholding Accountability in SAPS
Maj. Gen. Zeph Mkhwanazi, Acting Provincial Commissioner for SAPS in Mpumalanga, expressed strong support for the ruling. He emphasized that accountability must apply to everyone in law enforcement.
“This sentence confirms that even police officers are accountable under the law,” Mkhwanazi said. “No one is exempt from justice.”
