Phoenix triple murder accused seemed 'unbothered'

Phoenix triple murder accused seemed 'unbothered'

The first policeman to reach the home of Jane Govindasamy and her two daughters after they were murdered says he became suspicious of their alleged attacker during his first interview with him.


Durban-High-Court - ECR
Nushera Soodyal
The bodies of Jane, Denisha and Nikita Govindasamy were found at the family's Longcroft Drive home in September last year.

Local tow-truck driver, Collin Pillay was arrested shortly thereafter.

Pillay's triple murder trial continues in the Durban High Court this morning.

NOW READ: Caretaker heard screams on day of Phoenix triple murder

Yesterday, Mohammed Rajah told the court that he went to interview the accused on the day the bodies were found because he learnt that Govindasamy had been involved in an extra-marital affair with him.

Rajah says when he met Pillay, the 43-year-old had a large, fresh abrasion under his left eye and a cut on his middle finger, that had been covered with a plaster.

ALSO READ: Phoenix triple murder trial continues in Durban High Court

The officer said Pillay told him he was hurt when the hook on the back of his tow-truck slipped.

Rajah says the response immediately made him think something was not right.

He testified that Pillay's demeanour seemed 'unbothered' and unemotional for someone who just lost a partner of 10-years.

He then tried to trace Pillay's steps and found that he went to an illegal gambling venue at about 9pm that night -- after he was seen leaving Tasvir Mansions.

Rajah says he also went to Pillay's home and retrieved the clothing he had been wearing on the day of the murders.

Pillay has pleaded not guilty to the crimes.

The trial continues.


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