Two brothers, Darren and Ferrel Govender, are facing a murder charge in Durban, South Africa. The brothers are accused of fatally shooting Shailen Singh in a parking lot. The State alleges that Ferrel Govender acted with premeditation, driven by jealousy over his girlfriend's alleged affair with the victim. The bail hearing commenced on Monday, with the defense arguing for the release of Ferrel Govender, citing his importance to his family's business and the impact of his detention on his employees. Darren Govender maintains his innocence and claims he was not involved in the crime. The State presented previous convictions of Darren Govender, while the brothers' legal team continues to fight for their release.
Darren Govender, 35, and his elder brother Ferrel Govender, 40, are facing a charge of murder. The brothers are facing a Schedule 6 bail application, in which the State alleges that the murder was pre-planned and the accused have to provide the court with exceptional circumstances as to why they should be released on bail. The State alleges that Ferrel fired over 10 shots at Singh in a parking lot on Meridian Drive in Umhlanga.
Singh had been seated in his white Toyota Hilux bakkie which was still idling when he was murdered. The State further alleges that Ferrel, was fueled by jealousy because he suspected his girlfriend of having an affair with Singh. During the bail application which began on Monday, the court heard why the brothers should be released on bail. Ferrel's attorney argued that he was a vital figure in his family's business, which employed over 8,000 people, and that their livelihoods were at risk if he remained in custody. Ferrel also claimed that the single witness during the identity parade held by police on January 8, 2024, did not identify him at the scene of the crime. However, the State in their affidavit by lead investigator Warrant Officer Kumarasan 'Bob' Pillay said that another witness did not attend the parade as he identified Ferrel at the scene so there was no need. Darren, who is a father of three, denies the allegation that he acted in common purpose with his brother in the alleged murder of Singh and that he intends to plead not guilty. 'I have every intention to defend myself against the allegation, stand trial, and clear my name,' said Darren in an affidavit. However, the State in their affidavit said that while Darren had no pending cases, he did have previous convictions. - In 2010 he was fined R2,000 or four months imprisonment wholly suspended for five years. - In 2018, Darren was fined R5,000 or 10 months imprisonment, half of which was suspended wholly for a period of three years. He failed to appear in court on July 28, 2011 and a warrant of arrest was issued against him. Darren appeared in court a month later. According to the State, the docket was not in court on 3 occasions and the matter was subsequently withdrawn, pending further investigation. The case was adjourned to Friday
Murder Bail Hearing Govender Brothers Shailen Singh Premeditated Crime Jealousy
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