The Govender brothers, Ferrel, 40, and Darren, 35, are facing serious charges after being implicated in the murder of Shailen Singh, 29, on December 29, 2024. Both men have been arrested and remain in custody at Westville Prison, awaiting a bail decision. Their trial is expected to continue next week at the Durban Magistrate’s Court. While they vehemently deny any involvement in Singh’s death, the state has presented compelling evidence that suggests a deeper motive tied to an alleged affair.
According to the 27-page affidavit submitted by lead investigator Kumarasan Bob Pillay, the case revolves around a personal dispute. Ferrel allegedly made phone calls to Singh mere minutes before the victim was shot, and CCTV footage from the crime scene places the brothers at the location. Ferrel’s Black BMW X5 and Darren’s Black Ford Ranger were seen near the Meridian Drive parking area in uMhlanga, just before the shooting occurred. The brothers are also accused of having a suspicious timeline on the day of the murder.
The domestic helper who worked at Ferrel’s residence provided crucial testimony. She reported that the brothers arrived at his home in uMhlanga around 12:30 p.m. on December 29, and stayed there for the majority of the day, having a lunch of Nando’s chicken and remaining on the premises until 7:00 p.m. Later, on December 31, 2024, the helper observed Ferrel packing clothing, including jeans, t-shirts, and toiletries, and leaving the house in his G-Wagon. This detail raised further suspicion, leading authorities to believe that Ferrel may have been preparing to flee.
A key point in the investigation has been Ferrel’s failure to comply with a court order to surrender his firearm. During the brothers’ initial court appearance on January 3, 2025, the Magistrate had instructed Ferrel to hand over the weapon within 12 hours. However, the investigating team’s visit to the Sandton property, where he claimed the firearm would be stored, found an empty safe. Despite the court’s clear directive, Ferrel had not complied, and the authorities are now considering this defiance as a significant piece of evidence.
Meanwhile, at Darren’s home, authorities discovered five firearms, raising further concerns about the brothers’ potential involvement in illegal activities. The Govender brothers are the owners of Pro Secure, a well-known security company, which has since found itself at the center of media speculation. Amidst the ongoing investigations, Pro Secure issued a statement addressing rumors that the company’s operations had been suspended by the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA). The statement refuted these claims, clarifying that Pro Secure is fully compliant with regulatory standards and continues to operate without interruption. Despite the allegations against its owners, the company reassured clients and the public that its services remain unaffected.
PSiRA, the body responsible for regulating the private security industry, also issued a statement condemning any form of violence or criminal activity involving security personnel. It confirmed that investigations were underway into separate incidents of alleged extortion and illegal shootings involving individuals linked to the security industry. In light of these developments, PSiRA has emphasized its commitment to ensuring accountability, stressing that any security companies found violating the law will face severe regulatory consequences, including suspension or de-registration.
As the investigation into the Govender brothers unfolds, the implications for both the individuals involved and the security industry at large remain significant. The outcome of the case could have far-reaching effects on Pro Secure’s operations, as well as the reputation of private security providers across the country. The public will be closely watching the next stages of the trial, with many questions still unanswered about the true motive behind Shailen Singh’s tragic death and the role of the Govender brothers in this chilling incident.
