Bradley Cole made his second appearance in the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate's Court on November 6, 2026, for allegedly running over Mountain Rise Community Policing Forum (CPF) chairperson Sham Govender. The case was set down for bail information but has been postponed to verify Cole's alternative address. Cole also faces a charge of violating a protection order, allegedly on the same day as the attempted murder.
According to reports, Cole allegedly ran over Govender outside his home at the end of October. Govender sustained multiple injuries, including a fractured nose, and was discharged from hospital earlier in the week. He was allegedly knocked over while trying to protect a woman from the local community. The attempted murder case against Cole has been postponed to allow for further verification.
During the court appearance, Magistrate Sandile informed Cole of the postponement and said his attorney, Thabani Mfeka, would liaise with the state regarding the consolidation of the two matters. This development comes after LifeLine director Sinikiwe Biyela condemned the attack on Govender, describing it as discouraging for activists who speak out against gender-based violence (GBV).
Biyela expressed concern that perpetrators are now targeting GBV activists, showing how brazen they are and their disregard for the law. “This confirms why perpetrators must remain behind bars as they want to take revenge,” said Biyela. “At times, the perpetrators are ruthless and the lives of the activists are not safe.” Her comments highlight the risks faced by activists working to combat GBV.
The postponement of the case allows for further investigation and verification of Cole's alternative address. This process will likely involve liaising with Cole's attorney and the state to ensure that all necessary information is obtained. The case will be revisited once this verification process is complete.
Govender's attack has sparked concern in the community, with many urging calm and condemning the violence. The incident has also raised questions about the safety of GBV activists and the need for greater protection for those working to combat gender-based violence.
The case against Bradley Cole will continue once the verification process is complete. Cole's attorney, Thabani Mfeka, will work with the state to consolidate the two matters and ensure that the case proceeds accordingly. The outcome of the case will be closely watched by the community and GBV activists.
Key points
- The case against Bradley Cole has been postponed to verify his alternative address.
- Cole allegedly ran over Govender while he was trying to protect a woman from the local community.
- The attack on Govender has sparked concern about the safety of GBV activists.
