DURBAN -Leeash Pillay, the man accused of killing an 18-year-old pupil last year, will know his fate in just over a month’s time.
The matter was set down for trial on Monday. However, it emerged that Pillay may consider changing his previous not guilty plea.
Pillay is charged with culpable homicide after allegedly knocking over Halima Bibi Shaik in Isipingo in September last year. He stands accused of ramming into the teenager when she and her friends were on their way home from school.
They were returning from writing their first trial examinations. The incident took place at the intersection of Lotus Drive and Acalypha Crescent on September 2, and Halima died at the scene.
In court on Monday it was heard that Pillay’s legal team had approached the senior public prosecutor, who asked for time to review the docket.
Anand Nepaul, Pillay’s attorney, asked that the matter be adjourned until July 18.
Magistrate Ravi Pillay agreed and said Pillay’s bail would be reinstated as per previous court appearances.
Outside the court, Halima’s family wept as the court proceedings were explained to them by Aidan David, chairperson of the Isipingo Community Police Forum.
David and members of the forum, along with Halima’s friends and family, gathered outside the court prior to Pillay’s appearance to stage a mini placard demonstration calling for a harsh sentence to be imposed.
David said they were disappointed the matter did not proceed as they had expected.
“We really hoped that the family would get the closure that they deserve. Unfortunately, the law has to take its own path. Witnesses were even prepared to testify as we all believed the trial was going to start today,” he said.
Halima’s friend, Shanice Govender, said they were best friends who did everything together. She described Halima as a bubbly and loving person.
Halima had hoped to pursue a career in law.
Her family declined to comment.