Brothers accused of Shailen Singh murder remanded in custody after brief court appearance

Two brothers accused in connection with the murder of Durban businessman Shailen Singh have been remanded in custody following their first appearance in the Durban Magistrate’s Court. The case has been postponed for a possible bail application hearing on January 13.

Details of the Arrest and Legal Proceedings

The accused cannot be named at this stage, as police have yet to conduct an identity parade. During Friday’s court proceedings, the State made it clear it would oppose bail for the two men.

Their arrest comes after Singh, a prominent figure in the freight and private security industries, was shot and killed in a targeted attack.

The Tragic Incident

Singh, 32, was gunned down on December 29 while seated in his vehicle, parked in a parking lot on Meridian Drive in uMhlanga, north of Durban’s central business district.

According to reports, Singh was found slumped inside his bakkie. Despite the swift response of paramedics, there was nothing that could be done to save him.

“Sadly, nothing could be done to save the victim, and he has been declared deceased,” KZNVIP Medics stated.

KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed that two vehicles seen fleeing the scene after the shooting were recovered.

The Aftermath of the Killing

Singh’s murder has left the community in shock, with his family and supporters calling for justice. On Friday, a large group of supporters gathered outside the court, holding placards and expressing their outrage. The emotional scene underscored the community’s demand for accountability and closure.

Singh’s funeral was held on New Year’s Day, drawing a significant turnout of family, friends, and colleagues.

State’s Position on Bail

The State’s opposition to bail for the accused has been influenced by the gravity of the charges and the nature of the crime. Prosecutors indicated that the murder involved a degree of planning, pointing to the recovery of vehicles associated with the suspects as key evidence in the case.

While the defense is expected to argue for bail at the January 13 hearing, the State will likely highlight concerns over public safety, witness intimidation, and flight risk.

A Life Cut Short

Shailen Singh’s death has cast a pall over Durban’s freight and private security sectors, where he was regarded as a rising star. Known for his business acumen and dedication, Singh had earned a reputation as a hardworking and influential figure.

His loss has been felt not only by his family but also by the broader business community, which has expressed its condolences and solidarity.

Community Response and Call for Justice

The murder has sparked outrage, with many calling for swift justice. Supporters of the Singh family have been vocal about their demands for a thorough investigation and accountability for the perpetrators.

“Shailen was a dedicated businessman and a loving family member. His death is a tragedy, and we want those responsible to face the full weight of the law,” said a family spokesperson.

Ongoing Investigation

The police investigation remains ongoing, with authorities piecing together evidence to strengthen the case. The recovery of the two vehicles linked to the crime scene is seen as a critical breakthrough.

Authorities have urged the public to come forward with any information that could assist in solving the case.

Looking Ahead

As the case progresses, all eyes will be on the January 13 bail hearing. The outcome will not only determine the immediate fate of the accused but also set the tone for the legal proceedings that follow.

For the Singh family and the community, justice remains the ultimate goal. Until then, they continue to mourn the loss of a man whose life was tragically cut short.

The post Brothers accused of Shailen Singh murder remanded in custody after brief court appearance appeared first on News365.co.za.