Businessman Rameez Patel jailed for life for murder of his wife

The Limpopo High Court has convicted and sentenced Rameez Patel (38) of Nirvana, Polokwane, to life imprisonment for the murder of his wife, Fatima Choomara Patel (28), bringing to an end a case that has dragged on for nearly a decade.

Patel pleaded not guilty when the trial commenced in 2016. Evidence led by the State showed that the couple were married and living together when Fatima was found shot dead in their apartment on 10 April 2015, following ongoing marital disputes linked to the accused’s extramarital affairs.

ALSO READ: Lekompo artist Shebeshxt denied bail

Police testified that there were no signs of forced entry. Patel initially claimed intruders were responsible, but his version later changed and was contradicted by the evidence.

The court heard that Patel instructed his younger brother, Razeen Patel, to hide a box containing a firearm at a shop after the murder. Razeen testified that he was threatened with death if he revealed the truth, but later reported the confession to police.

Forensic pathologist Dr Thakadu Mamashela confirmed that Fatima died from a gunshot wound to the head and had sustained other injuries. A cricket bat hidden in the apartment ceiling was also recovered.

ALSO READ: Man sentenced to life imprisonment for killing his wife in a church

In aggravation, the State argued the case exemplified the country’s femicide crisis.

Judge Joseph Raulinga found no remorse or compelling circumstances and imposed life imprisonment. The NPA welcomed the sentence, saying justice had finally been served.