The Kimberley Magistrate’s Court has been packed as the accused apply for bail. Picture: Sandi Kwon Hoo
MURDER accused Advocate Celeste Nameka, 43, and her father, Clive Ferris, 67, are appearing in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court this week to apply for bail.
The courtroom has been packed with supporters from both families, while petitions have also been drawn up urging the court not to grant the accused bail.
Nameka and Ferris are facing multiple charges, including murder, attempted murder, and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
The charges stem from an incident in Minerva Gardens in Kimberley on December 21, during which Charmaine Anthony, 56, was fatally shot and her 37-year-old son was shot and injured.
Ferris has also been charged with discharging a firearm and contravening the Firearms Control Act. Nameka faces an additional charge of acting in common purpose with four unidentified persons.
The legal representative for the accused, Advocate Joy Mongala, argued that it was in the interests of justice to release the accused on bail.
He described Ferris as "a frail, old man" who had suffered physical harm during the incident.
“Schools are starting on January 15 and Nameka is a single mother. She needs to get her child ready for school and to get his stationery. She is a legal practitioner and has a doctorate in law. She is also not able to generate an income while she is incarcerated,” Mongala said.
He also pointed out that neither of his clients had any prior convictions.
Mongala added that both his clients’ passports had expired and they would not evade trial or leave the borders of the country.
“They will not interfere with any evidence, or State witnesses and will not disturb the public order if they are released,” he stated.
The case continues before Magistrate Khumalo.