Bradley Cole, a 50-year-old man, made his first appearance in the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate's Court on Friday. He is charged with attempted murder after allegedly running over Mountain Rise Community Policing Forum chairperson Sham Govender on Thursday morning. The incident occurred outside Govender's home in the northern areas, where he was knocked down and dragged by a vehicle while trying to protect a woman.
During the court proceedings, Cole appeared confused when Magistrate Sandile Ngwenya asked him whether he understood the charge against him. He told the court that he would seek the assistance of a Legal Aid attorney. State prosecutor Philile Phoswa said the state was opposed to bail, as it needed to verify the safety of the complainant and the alternative address provided by Cole.
The court heard that Cole was also due to appear in another matter relating to the alleged violation of a protection order. Both matters were postponed to November 6. When asked by Ngwenya whether he had any previous convictions or pending matters, Cole said he was not aware of any. This information was presented to the court as part of the bail application process.
Govender remains in hospital after sustaining multiple injuries, including a fractured nose. He was attacked while trying to protect a woman, highlighting the risks faced by GBV activists. LifeLine director Sinikiwe Biyela expressed concern over the incident, stating that it was discouraging to see communities' reliance on activists like Govender being threatened.
Biyela noted that the incident showed how brazen perpetrators have become and their disregard for the law. This confirms why perpetrators must remain behind bars, as they want to take revenge. At times, the perpetrators are ruthless, and the lives of the activists are not safe. The attack on Govender has raised concerns about the safety of GBV activists in the community.
The incident has sparked outrage, with many calling for increased protection for GBV activists. Community members have expressed their support for Govender and condemned the attack. The police are expected to provide additional protection to Govender as he recovers in the hospital. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
The case has been postponed to November 6, and Cole will appear in court again on that date. The state will continue to investigate and verify the information provided by Cole. Govender's condition is being monitored, and the community is waiting for the outcome of the case. The attack on Govender serves as a reminder of the risks faced by those fighting against GBV.
Key points
- The accused, Bradley Cole, appeared in court on an attempted murder charge after allegedly running over GBV activist Sham Govender.
- The incident has raised concerns about the safety of GBV activists in the community.
- The case has been postponed to November 6, and Cole will appear in court again on that date.
