A Shallcross family says they remain anxious and frustrated as the alleged conspiracy-to-murder case involving local priest Ashley Padayachee continues through the courts.
His wife Hannah Padayachee told Merebank and Chatsworth Tabloid that the matter was remanded to Tuesday, 7 April after the accused failed to present their statement to the court outlining their side of the story. The family said they had expected the statements to be submitted as the accused had already been given sufficient time to prepare them.
Hannah said the delay has added to the strain the family has been experiencing since the case first began. She also raised concerns about an incident that allegedly took place during an earlier court appearance at the Chatsworth Magistrate’s Court.
According to Hannah, one of the friends of the accused, who she claims was part of a group that attempted to intimidate them at court, had previously obtained a protection order against her. She said she found this confusing as she knows the man personally as her late husband’s brother.
“He was part of the group that was intimidating us and not the other way around,” she said.
Hannah added that the protection order application was later withdrawn on the day mediation took place.
Although she said there have been no recent direct threats to their lives, the family remains cautious and vigilant.
“The matter has gone on for too long. I wonder why they are dragging it out by not producing their statement, which we have been waiting for. They were given enough time to prepare it,” she said.
The case is now being heard in the Durban High Court after it was transferred from the Chatsworth Magistrate’s Court.
The family previously said the prolonged legal process, along with the alleged intimidation and threats, has taken a significant emotional toll on them as they continue to seek justice and safety.
