Police investigate murder of former Pretoria Rugby Club chairperson

Jaco Basson (59), a former chairperson and director of the Pretoria Rugby Club, was shot dead on Sunday.

Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi says police received a complaint of a shooting at Modise Stand in Winterveldt.

“The victim was reportedly shot by an unknown person and the circumstances that led to the shooting are also unknown at this stage.”

Basson was declared dead at a clinic in the vicinity of Soshanguve.

Blue Bulls Rugby Union CEO Dr Eugene Hare expressed his shock and disbelief at Basson’s murder.

According to Hare, Basson was fatally shot in an armed robbery.

“I battle to find words to express my emotions as this is a terrible tragedy. Jaco was such a selfless soul who did so much for club rugby, notably at Pretoria Rugby Club in the past few years.

“What always struck me about him was how unselfishly he operated… Always willing to share his time, energy, and wealth of expertise as his contribution to the betterment of the game. Jaco never said ‘I did it’, but always ‘we did it’.

“My sincere condolences go to his family and friends. He will be remembered as a giant among giants.”

Basson’s sister Rialta Van der Mescht says the family lost Basson after he responded to a Facebook Marketplace advertisement.

In a Facebook post, she wrote: “We lost money but my husband and boys walked away from the situation unharmed. On Sunday, he and a friend went to look at a vehicle advertised on Facebook, and it cost him his life.”

The friend reportedly escaped unscathed.

Berinda Basson via her social media said: “Our hearts are broken! There are no words that can describe the void dad leaves in the lives of mom, us, and grandchildren. In the lives of all your children, the family, and friends. We love you dad and will miss you forever!”

Blue Bulls Rugby Union deputy president Ben Eybers said: “Jaco belonged to a rare breed of individuals who always put rugby first. He was a true legend and leaves a rich legacy.”

Nevhuhulwi says police urge anyone with information about the incident to contact their nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.