According to testimony delivered in the Durban High Court on Thursday afternoon, a State witness described how murder-accused former security boss Ferrel Govender allegedly assaulted his girlfriend, Salona Ramrutton/Kisten, until she lost consciousness before firing six shots in her direction. The witness stated that the assault occurred on December 22, 2024, while Govender accused Ramrutton/Kisten of having an affair with businessman Shailen Singh.
The testimony places the alleged domestic violence incident exactly one week before Shailen Singh was shot dead in Umhlanga on December 29, 2024. According to the State’s case presented in court, Ferrel Govender and his younger brother, Darren, allegedly lured Singh to a meeting where the fatal shooting took place, with Ferrel Govender identified as the gunman.
Court Testimony Detailing the December 22 Assault
The witness, who cannot be named, testified that she had been friends with Ramrutton/Kisten prior to the attack. She noted that during previous video calls and meetings, she frequently observed visible bruises on Ramrutton/Kisten. When questioned, Ramrutton/Kisten would only claim they had experienced a misunderstanding, according to court records.
Shortly before the incident, the witness received messages from Govender asking about Ramrutton/Kisten’s location. During their WhatsApp exchange, Govender allegedly referred to Ramrutton/Kisten as his “ride or die.” When the witness confronted Govender about alleged abuse, she testified that he defended his actions by saying, “She must behave, and the reason she gets smacked is that she has a big mouth.”
Did You Know? Before the December 22 assault, murder-accused Ferrel Govender allegedly communicated with the State witness via WhatsApp, describing Salona Ramrutton/Kisten as his “ride or die.”
Mediation Attempt and Escalation at Govender’s Home
After reviewing the WhatsApp messages, the witness met with Ramrutton/Kisten to mediate the relationship. While the two women were together, Govender called and invited them to his house. According to the witness’s testimony, the situation escalated rapidly once they arrived at the property.
The witness told the court that Govender suddenly grew aggressive, punched Ramrutton/Kisten in the face after she allegedly muttered something or rolled her eyes, and walked upstairs. When Ramrutton/Kisten screamed in pain and urged the witness to run, the witness became trapped inside the house. Govender then allegedly dragged Ramrutton/Kisten across the floor by her hair, battered her with his fists and feet, and smashed a round kitchen vase over her head.
Shots Fired and Aftermath of the Incident
During the assault, Govender allegedly drew a revolver and discharged about six shots in the direction of the two women while shouting accusations that Ramrutton/Kisten was cheating on him “with the whole of Umhlanga” and specifically with Shailen Singh. The witness recalled begging him to stop while Ramrutton/Kisten covered her head, screamed apologies, and pleaded for mercy.
The violence subsided only when Govender seemingly calmed down, repeatedly asking Ramrutton/Kisten, “Why did you do this to me?” He ultimately permitted both women to leave so they could seek medical treatment. The witness stated she later apologized to Ramrutton/Kisten, expressing deep regret for encouraging the reconciliation meeting. The trial in the Durban High Court continues.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the alleged assault on Salona Ramrutton/Kisten take place?
According to testimony in the Durban High Court, the alleged assault occurred on December 22, 2024.
What is the connection between the assault and the death of Shailen Singh?
The State alleges that the assault happened a week before Shailen Singh was shot dead in Umhlanga on December 29, 2024, during which murder-accused Ferrel Govender repeatedly accused Ramrutton/Kisten of having an affair with Singh.
Who has been identified as the shooter in the death of Shailen Singh?
The State has identified Ferrel Govender as the shooter who fatally shot Shailen Singh after he and his younger brother, Darren, allegedly lured Singh to a meeting.
? What details from the ongoing court proceedings stand out most regarding the sequence of events leading up to the murder trial?
Related reading