‘Cop killer’ case transferred to high court

THE CASE against Daniel Wilfred Alberts, 39, who is accused of fatally shooting two police officers attached to the Kimberley Flying Squad in August 2023, has been transferred to the Northern Cape High Court.

Alberts made a brief appearance in the Kimberley District Court this week. He faces two counts of murder, three counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances, one count of motor vehicle theft, and one count of theft.

Alberts is accused of fatally shooting Sergeant Kedimetse Masilo and Constable Okaetse Mandindi following a high-speed car chase in Kimberley on August 22 last year.

The two officers were reportedly shot and killed while trying to apprehend Alberts, who was wanted in connection with the theft of a motor vehicle in Bloemfontein.

Alberts allegedly shot the officers after he overpowered them and turned one of their own R5 rifles on them. Both officers were apparently shot four times.

Alberts was arrested later that day in Riverton and was allegedly found in possession of the R5 rifle, an unlicensed firearm, and drugs.

The regional spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Mojalefa Senokoatsane, stated that the case has been postponed until February next year.

“The case has been postponed to February 10, 2025, when Alberts is expected to appear in the Northern Cape High Court. During his district court appearance, the accused informed the court that he would no longer require the services of his legal representative and intended to represent himself in this matter,” said Senokoatsane.

“The accused remains in custody until his next court appearance.”