John-Ross Henderson, 38, charged with the murder of well-known businessman Jayson Afrique, 28, and the attempted murder of Afrique’s 27-year-old wife, is expected to make a formal bail application in the Kimberley Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.
JOHN-Ross Henderson, 38, charged with the murder of well-known businessman Jayson Afrique, 28, and the attempted murder of Afrique’s 27-year-old wife, is expected to make a formal bail application in the Kimberley Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.
Henderson made a brief court appearance on September 25, facing a packed gallery of supporters of the bereaved family.
His legal representative, Celeste Nameka, stated that the matter could not proceed due to the unavailability of the investigating officer, who “suddenly disappeared” following the lunch break.
Nameka believed that the delay was a tactic, as several issues should have been resolved by the South African Police Service (SAPS) before the bail hearing.
Henderson was moved to different court venues on three occasions on Wednesday.
Nameka also objected to any photographs being taken of Henderson, both inside and outside the court.
The State said it would prosecute the alleged crime in terms of a Schedule 6 offence and indicated that it would not be rushed by the defence, where Henderson would receive the same treatment as any other accused.
SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Sergio Kock confirmed that Henderson would remain in custody, stating, “The investigation continues.”
A family supporter, Lisa-Maré Schickerling, called for Henderson to be denied bail in the interests of the safety of Afrique’s wife and the bereaved family.
“The family is extremely traumatised and distraught. We have faith that justice will prevail and that if there are any other suspects they will be arrested. We are satisfied with the pace of the investigation,” she said.
