Bontas husband in hof for murder of Shireena Birch

THE Bonteheuwel man accused of stabbing his wife to death appeared in the Bishop Lavis Magistrate’s Court on Friday, as community leaders voiced strong opposition to any possible bail.

Riedewaan Birch appeared in court facing a charge of murder after he allegedly stabbed his wife, Shireena Birch, during a domestic incident last week.

According to reports, the fatal stabbing occurred at about 3.15pm on 3 February at a premises in Assegaai Avenue, Bonteheuwel. Shireena was rushed to hospital but sadly succumbed to her injuries.

Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk said the circumstances surrounding the stabbing incident are under investigation.

Van Wyk reported: “The victim sustained stab wounds to the head and the back of her shoulder. Bishop Lavis police registered a murder case for investigation.

“According to reports, SAPS members received a complaint of a person who was stabbed and declared deceased at a local hospital.

“On their arrival, they were shown the body of the deceased, who was declared dead on arrival.”

Ward Councillor Angus McKenzie said he was deeply disturbed by the violent killing, particularly as the suspect had initially fled the scene.

Nearly 24 hours after the stabbing, McKenzie confirmed that the suspect had handed himself over to police following calls for his arrest.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila confirmed that the accused is the deceased’s husband.

McKenzie attended the court appearance alongside members of the neighbourhood watch and other community-based organisations to show their opposition to bail.

McKenzie said: “We want to show the court that we do not want bail for the suspect.

“We are not only taking a stand against gender-based violence, but we are taking a stand to ensure that our courts show the same appreciation for the fact that justice must prevail and that perpetrators of gender-based violence are dealt with effectively.”

He added that he has formally written to the court on behalf of the Bonteheuwel community to oppose the accused’s release.

The case was postponed to 11 February for bail information.