Two teen suspects are in police custody and will appear in court following the brutal murder of a Hindu priest in the Merebank area, Guru Liven Pillay (38), whose body was found at Punjab Circle, on Sunday, 19 January.
Speaking to the Merebank and Chatsworth Tabloid, Pillay’s cousin, Leenesh Brijlall (36), said the family has been left devastated by Liven’s murder. Pillay served at the Seva Soobramoneyium Temple, in Sezela and was a resident in Merebank. He conducted various prayers and funerals for community members.
“We are battling to come to terms with this horrific crime. My cousin’s life was snatched away so callously. He was the breadwinner in his family. His wife, Colleena, who is pregnant, and his five-year-old son, are shattered,” Brijlall said.
He said the family is closely following the investigation and are encouraged to hear that two suspects are in police custody.
Wentworth SAPS communications officer, Captain MP Gumede said: “A suspect aged 19, handed himself over at the police station. A second suspect, aged 18, was arrested by a detective officer.
They are both detained for a murder charge. Detectives are continuing with investigations into the murder.”
“Guru Liven had a heart for the community. We grew up in each other houses. We shared a close family bond and also walked the spiritual path together. When we received the news of his murder, it shook our family.
The two alleged perpetrators reportedly killed him, they stabbed him to death, because he had no cash to hand over. They took a father and husband’s life because he did not have cash to fuel their drug habit. Liven’s baby will be born without a father. His wife has been left to raise two children,” said Brijlall.
“Liven was known to the community. He served in that community. It is heartbreaking that his life was ended in such a merciless way and he was left to die on the cold ground while his family were unaware of his death just minutes away from the crime scene.
As a family, we will not rest until justice is served. Liven’s life was cut short in a heartless manner. He did not deserve that. We will ensure that the perpetrators responsible for his killing face the consequences of their actions. He was laid to rest on Thursday, 23 January in Umkomaas,” said Brijlall.
