Krugerdorp - The Krugersdorp Regional Court denied bail to murder accused Roedolf Viviers on Tuesday.
“The applicant failed dismally to prove to this court that it would be in the interest of justice to release him on bail. Bail is therefore denied,” said magistrate Reginald Dama.
Viviers and another man, Zayne van Tonder, 33, allegedly insulted Muhammad Fayaaz Kazi and his friend Anser Mahmood about their beards at a Chicken Licken outlet in Magaliesburg on August 6, 2012.
An argument and a fight ensued. Kazi was severely beaten and died in hospital.
Charges against Van Tonder were later dropped and he was released.
Kazi's brothers Mohammed Nuaman, 22, and Mohammed Farhan, 18, shouted “Praise Allah” when Dama made his ruling.
Kazi's widow Sajidah sobbed and hugged friends and relatives who packed the public gallery.
Viviers, who was wearing glasses, a blue shirt and khaki pants calmly listened to Dama. He looked at his feet when he was led to the police cells.
He will appear in the High Court in Johannesburg on March 4, when a trial date is to be set. - Sapa