POLOKWANE – Sentencing proceedings will continue this week in the Limpopo High Court in the city, in the murder case of local businessman Rameez Patel.

Patel was recently found guilty of murdering his wife, Fatima Patel, at their Nirvana home in April 2015. He was convicted on charges of murder, as well as illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.

Bail issues and legal appeals ongoing

His legal representative indicated an intention to appeal the extension of bail, after an earlier bail application was dismissed. Both matters were scheduled to be heard from Wednesday to Friday this week.

The defence has also abandoned its application for a pre-sentence report indefinitely. Prior to his conviction, to which he pleaded not guilty, Patel had been released on R250 000 bail, subject to strict conditions, including weekly reporting at the Westenburg Police Station and notifying authorities of any movement outside Limpopo. His bail was revoked following the guilty verdict.

Presiding judge Joseph Raulinga delivered judgment over nearly five hours, concluding that Patel had staged aspects of the crime scene and lied repeatedly during the nine-year legal process.

Forensic evidence shows brutal assault

Graphic forensic photographs presented in court showed Fatima lying in a pool of blood with severe facial swelling, consistent with what the state described as a violent and prolonged assault.

Expert testimony and pathology reports showed that she sustained multiple fractures to the head and neck. The fatal gunshot entered through her neck.

Raulinga criticised attempts by certain witnesses to downplay the extent of Fatima’s injuries, stating that the evidence showed she had been “brutally tortured” before her death.

Family testimony reveals threats and confessions

He further noted that several witnesses, including Patel’s sister, confirmed that Patel owned a firearm, contradicting his repeated denials. Patel initially claimed his wife may have been attacked by intruders and said he left the house after the incident to wash and change clothes elsewhere.

“The court views the accused as a pathological liar,” Raulinga said, adding that Patel’s version of events was inconsistent and contradicted by physical evidence. He also rejected Patel’s claim that all clothing worn on the night of the murder had been handed to police, noting that key items were missing.

The court further heard testimony from Patel’s brother, Razeen Patel, who said the accused threatened to kill him if he disclosed details of the event. Razeen told the court he eventually reported both the threats and an alleged confession to police.

Raulinga also stated that Patel’s current wife, along with the initial investigating officer and other individuals named, should be investigated as possible accomplices. Evidence during the trial pointed to a love triangle, which reportedly contributed to ongoing marital conflict.