Emotions ran high at Chatsworth Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 18 September, as the community watched the mother and son accused of murdering 57-year-old Stephen Narayansami Chetty face a tense split bail ruling.
Accused number one, Dilon Moodley was granted R5 000 bail, while his mother, accused number two Adilutchmee Moodley, remained behind bars, leaving courtroom spectators stunned.
The court heard that Dilon had testified he was not in the house on the night of the alleged murder, returning only the following morning. No reports of an intruder were recorded, and both the deceased and his bedridden wife were present at the time. Magistrate Ndlovu noted that while the State has the prerogative to decide whom to charge, the evidence against Dilon was not strong enough to justify continued detention.
Defence attorney Shireen Soobrathi argued that the State relied solely on circumstantial evidence. She highlighted a recording allegedly showing witnesses discussing altering their statements and emphasised that both accused were not flight risks, having remained at their residence since the incident and providing verifiable addresses for bail purposes.
Prosecutor Sumeshni Naidoo countered by stressing the community’s shock, public outcry, and media interest in the case. While reading the investigative officer’s statement, she said witnesses reported threats and intimidation, including a child missing school, and presented a petition with 300 signatures opposing bail for the accused.
Outside court, the deceased’s sister, Shirrene Govender, expressed disappointment that Chetty’s husband had not been arrested, adding that he should also be held accountable. “My brother and his wife have been robbed of growing old together and of many other goals they might have had for their household,” she said. She urged the community to continue supporting the family: “This crime could happen to anyone, and if justice is served, it will be a lesson for any potential criminal.”
Stephen Chetty was allegedly strangled in his Welbedacht East home on 25 April while in the care of the accused, who had been hired to look after his bedridden wife. The case shocked the community when attempts were made to arrange his cremation without informing the family.
Since the tragedy, both the caregiver and her son have been arrested, the case has faced several court delays, and it has remained under intense public and media scrutiny. On 17 September, bail arguments were heard, with the ruling on 18 September granting Dilon Moodley bail while his mother remained in custody. The matter has been adjourned to Wednesday, 29 October for further proceedings.
