Pursuant to the extradition order granted against Mr Shrien Dewani by the English High Court on the 3rd of March 2014, the South African Government has finalised the process of facilitating his return to the country.
Mr Dewani is expected to leave Britain today and touch down in the country tomorrow morning and be immediately escorted to the Western Cape High Court where he is expected to appear for the first time in the South African court of law at 11h30. In view of his peculiar medical condition, Mr Dewani will be accompanied by a medical doctor, a nurse and members of the South African Police Service (SAPS). This is informed by the fact that he is currently a patient and suspect who is in police custody and may need medical assistance en-route to the country.
Upon landing at Cape Town International Airport, he will be escorted by SAPS members to the Western Cape High Court where he will be formally charged and processed by the investigating team.
Media access:
It is important for members of the media to note that Mr Dewani is a suspect whose constitutional rights including his right of innocent until proven guilty. It is for this reason that there will be no provision for him being photographed prior to his court appearance. On his court appearance media will have an opportunity to film inside court but as soon as the judge walks in all cameras should be off and be removed from the court room.
We appreciate the frustration this may cause to members of the media but on his next court appearance an application can be made for filming of proceedings. We are therefore appealing to media to understand and respect this decision.
Of importance is our desire to comply with an undertaking the South African government made to the English High Court that Mr Dewani is to be treated both as a suspect and patient until the trial court has ruled on his fitness to stand trial.
Any application to film the court proceedings in respect of this matter will be dealt through the normal court application through the office of the Registrar of the Western Cape High Court.
With regard to media accreditation, members of the media are advised that they should bring their press cards in order to be accredited for tomorrow. For the duration of Mr Dewani's trial, new media accreditation cards will be issued out.
Thank you.
Enquiries:
Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga
Cell: 083 641 8141
