The family of the late Allen Pillay who was allegedly shot and killed by his neighbour during a heated argument on Palmview Drive, on 12 August, is devastated and frustrated after his alleged killer was granted bail at the Verulam Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 18 August.
Speaking to the Phoenix Tabloid, the daughter of the deceased, 24-year-old Alison Pillay said they are heartbroken and angry at the court’s decision to release the accused out on bail. She said: “We all fear what this means now that he is back out in society and living comfortably, at another location, while we continue the fight for justice for my dad.”
The grieving family said they feel let down by the justice system which is meant to protect them from their neighbour who has been charged with their father’s murder. “The suspect may have been given bail but he shot and murdered someone, how could they just give him bail?” questioned Pillay.
She said the family is now living in fear and praying that justice prevails. “He must serve his time behind bars, we do not feel safe.”
Pillay said one of the bail conditions that the suspect was released under was that he not return to his home, which is opposite the Pillay residence. He is not allowed to make contact with the family and or interfere with any other witness related to the case.
IFP Councillor, Jonathan Annipen, who has brought on board an attorney for the Pillay family, said he has joined the family in solidarity in their fight for justice. The accused will next appear at the Verulam Magistrate’s Court on 8 September.
