The family of 23-year-old Dalen Gounden is in shock and mourning after Dilyn Keeanu Naidoo, accused of fatally shooting him, was granted bail at Umlazi Magistrate’s Court.
The decision on Friday, 10 October, has left the family traumatised and outraged, calling for justice for their son.
Gounden, from Montford, was shot along the R102 in Amanzimtoti on Friday, 26 September. Following the shooting, the accused reportedly left the scene, returned home to bathe and change, and later handed himself over to police. The sudden and violent nature of the attack has devastated his loved ones and shocked the wider community.
Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed that investigations into the shooting are ongoing and that the case was remanded until Monday, 6 October. “We urge anyone with information to assist the authorities,” he said.
Gounden’s father, Nagentheran, expressed their disbelief at the bail decision and described the loss of his son in deeply emotional terms.
“We were not expecting this outcome, especially given the accused’s past involvement in gun-related violence. We also do not have a date for the next appearance. He was our only son and brought so much joy into our home. He was never a threat to anyone and was well-loved. His mother remains inconsolable, and his younger sister is struggling to cope,” he said.
The Chatsworth community remain united in mourning Gounden, grappling with the trauma of his violent death, and calling for justice.
