The Durban Magistrate’s Court has reserved judgment in the high-profile murder case of Durban trucking businessman Shailen Singh, who was gunned down execution-style in December 2024.
Two brothers, Ferrel (40) and Darren (35) Govender, stand accused of his premeditated murder, with a bail decision expected on Monday.
On December 29, Singh, the 32-year-old owner of Shail Trans Logistics, was found dead inside his white Toyota Hilux bakkie on Meridian Drive in Umhlanga. He had sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his head, neck, and abdomen.
Witnesses described the attack as ruthless, with reports indicating that the shooter emptied an entire magazine into him before fleeing.
Swift Arrests and Alleged Motive
On January 1, 2025, the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Organised Crime Unit arrested the Govender brothers after linking them to the crime through CCTV footage and forensic evidence. The footage allegedly captured Ferrel in a black BMW X5 and Darren in a black Ford Ranger at the crime scene. Both vehicles have since been seized by police.
The State has argued that the murder was premeditated, citing a possible love triangle as the motive. Prosecutors allege that Ferrel was angered by Singh’s involvement with his girlfriend, leading to ongoing threats before the fatal attack.
The State is opposing bail, arguing that the brothers are a flight risk and may flee despite their passports being confiscated.
Prosecutor Seema Reddy pointed out that one of the accused left KwaZulu-Natal for Gauteng immediately after the murder, reinforcing concerns about potential evasion of justice.
Additionally, the State alleges that witnesses in the case have been threatened and even assaulted, further strengthening its argument that the accused should remain in custody.
However, the defence has painted a different picture. Ferrel, a businessman overseeing a company with over 3,000 employees and 8,000 customers, argues that remaining behind bars could lead to severe financial losses and job losses in his company. His legal team insists that he and his brother will comply with bail conditions if released.
The trucking community and Singh’s family are closely following the case, seeking justice for the slain businessman. As Monday’s judgment looms, many are hoping for a decision that will bring them closer to closure in this tragic case.
Do you have more on this story? Click to WhatsApp us. Anonymity guaranteed.
