The trial against the Govender brothers, Ferrel and his younger brother Darren has begun.
The high-profile murder trial of the Govender brothers took an unexpected turn before a single witness could be heard, as defence lawyers moved to block the live broadcasting of proceedings in the Durban High Court on Tuesday.
Moments before the trial was set to begin, legal representatives for Ferrel and Darren Govender objected to media coverage, arguing that journalists and broadcasters should first obtain the court’s permission through a formal application process.
The State alleges that the brothers murdered Durban businessman Shailen Singh in 2024, claiming the killing stemmed from a love triangle and is supported by CCTV footage and cellphone records. Ferrel Govender remains in custody, while Darren Govender is out on bail.
Advocate Mike Hellens SC, appearing for Ferrel Govender, acknowledged the media’s role in serving the public interest but argued that any application to broadcast court proceedings must be formally brought before the court and the application must be open to opposition.
