Missing cop Robin Basson testifies in Duncan Hoorn murder trial

Warrant Officer Robin Basson, a police officer since 2002 and detective since 2012, testified in the Duncan Hoorn murder trial on Tuesday. The trial, held at the Western Cape High Court in Wynberg Regional Court, stemmed from a domestic violence complaint involving Chantel Pasqualle-Hoorn. Basson accompanied Sergeant Bongolethu Gwada to Hoorn’s Surdown Walk home on June 27, 2024, at the request of Pasqualle-Hoorn’s sister.

According to Basson, their sister called police to report that her sister needed help. They arrived at the property, where an argument broke out between Hoorn and his sister-in-law at the security gate. Hoorn reportedly became hostile, prompting Basson to instruct Gwada to move her away. Basson entered the property and witnessed Pasqualle-Hoorn leaning over the upstairs railing.

He questioned her about her need for assistance and informed her that her sister had reported her because of concerns regarding her. Hoorn claimed that the couple needed to resolve their marital issues. Basson testified that Hoorn bumped into him as he walked by, after which he warned Hoorn that whatever happened would be his responsibility.

The prosecutor, Advocate Renée Uys, scrutinized Basson's conduct, questioning his decision to speak with Pasqualle-Hoorn while Hoorn was present, rather than separating the parties involved. Uys also challenged Basson's account of entering the property unaided and his assertion that Pasqualle-Hoorn declined assistance. Basson admitted that Gwada's testimony differed from his own, particularly regarding language barriers and their discussion inside the property.

Uys pointed out the discrepancy between Basson's statement about informing Pasqualle-Hoorn's sister about the 10111 emergency number and Pasqualle-Hoorn's subsequent hospitalization with severe brain injuries. Basson maintained that he had acted within his duties, but the prosecutor pressed him to acknowledge any failures in his performance.

The defense attorney cautioned against Basson's response, fearing potential self-incrimination. The prosecution concluded its case, leaving the defense to present its argument, with a final judgment expected shortly.