The murder of 32-year-old Shailen Singh, a well-known business owner from uMhlanga, has gripped the attention of the nation this week. The case has unfolded with unexpected twists, including allegations of a love triangle, protests outside the courtroom, and growing questions about the role of the accused. As the bail hearing for the two men arrested in connection with the murder continues, details from the investigation have brought both drama and intrigue to light.
On December 29, 2024, Singh was fatally shot in broad daylight while sitting in his white Toyota Hilux bakkie in a parking lot on Meridian Drive in uMhlanga. Singh had been in contact with his wife just moments earlier, telling her he was on his way to buy tyres for his truck. At around 12:05 pm, as his vehicle idled in the parking bay, gunfire rang out, and Singh’s life was tragically cut short.
The arrest of Ferrel and Darren Govender, the two brothers who are now at the center of the case, took place on New Year’s Day. The brothers, aged 40 and 35, respectively, handed themselves over to police after an intense search. The investigation had initially sought them at their homes and businesses, and it was their attorney who eventually informed them that the police were actively looking for them. Both brothers were arrested on charges related to Singh’s murder, and their court appearances have sparked public interest.
The brothers made their first appearance in the Durban Magistrate’s Court on January 3, 2025, with the matter being adjourned for an identity parade. After this, the court reconvened on January 8 for the parade itself, and on January 12, the bail application process began. Outside the courthouse, a crowd gathered daily, with many wearing t-shirts proclaiming the brothers’ innocence. The group, who appeared to be supporters of the accused, also displayed banners and gazebos bearing the name of ProSecure, the company both Ferrel and Darren work for. On the other side, Singh’s grieving father and wife also attended every court session, with Singh’s father wearing a t-shirt bearing his son’s image.
During the bail hearings, the Govender brothers vehemently denied any involvement in Singh’s murder. Their legal team filed founding affidavits arguing that the murder was not premeditated, despite the state’s claim that it was. In this case, the burden of proof lies with the accused to demonstrate exceptional circumstances for bail to be granted, especially since the murder is categorized as a schedule six offence, which involves pre-planning.
Ferrel Govender, a businessman who oversees a company with over 3,000 employees, argued that his business could not operate without his leadership. He also expressed concern over the potential suspension of his security company’s registration, which could lead to significant disruptions. He insisted that he had no intention of fleeing and was committed to clearing his name. Darren, also a businessman and a father of three, similarly denied his involvement in any criminal activity related to his brother. He did, however, have a past involving previous charges that had been dropped, including those for drunk driving and drug possession.
The state’s affidavit, however, painted a much darker picture. It suggested that the motive behind the murder was linked to an affair. According to the affidavit, Singh had been romantically involved with Ferrel’s girlfriend, leading to tension and threats from Ferrel toward Singh. CCTV footage and witness statements appeared to place both brothers at the scene of the crime at the exact time of the shooting. Ferrel was allegedly seen driving a black BMW X5, while Darren was in a black Ford Ranger. The state further contended that Ferrel fired the first two shots, followed by another eight, as Darren watched. After the shooting, the brothers allegedly went to Ferrel’s home where they casually ate a meal from Nando’s.
The case has taken on additional significance, not just because of the tragic murder itself but due to the many layers of drama surrounding it. Investigators say the case is progressing with strong evidence against the accused, and the State has pointed to phone records that show Ferrel made two calls to Singh just before the murder. Furthermore, evidence suggests that Darren made contact with Ferrel after the murder and traveled from Morningside to uMhlanga on the day of the killing.
With the investigation still ongoing, the two brothers remain behind bars, currently held at Westville Prison. If convicted, they could face life sentences for their roles in the crime. The bail application, which has captured the attention of many, is set to continue on January 27, when arguments will be heard and a potential ruling will be made.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the case has sparked a broader conversation about family, betrayal, and justice, with many eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this complex and deeply troubling case.
