Update

GEORGE NEWS - In a case that has shocked the community, the George Magistrate's Court denied bail for the two men accused of the brutal murder of 53-year-old Joan Singrew, née Van Beulen.

The accused, Singrew’s husband, Duane Singrew (46) and Heinrich Jumat, his 45-year-old cousin, appeared in court on 18, 19 and 20 December. They will remain in custody and are set to appear in court again on 11 February 2025.

Court proceedings took place under heavy police surveillance as the public gallery was packed with friends, family, gender-based violence and femicide activists, community leaders, members of different spiritual fraternities, and concerned residents.

Singrew’s body was discovered on 25 November, on her birthday, and significantly also at the start of 16 days of activism against violence against women and children. The discovery was made concluding an extensive search after a missing person's docket was opened on 21 November near Great Brak River, sparking a wave of shock, outrage, and grief.

Details of the alleged crime

The preliminary investigations paints a grim picture, as it is alleged that Singrew's husband murdered her at their residence in St Mary's Street in Rosemoor on the morning of 21 November. 

His cousin allegedly aided him in transporting and dumping her body near Great Brak River to cover up the crime. The two are charged with murder and obstruction of the course of justice. 

Authorities have not disclosed the motive behind the killing, but the couple had a history of discord and was going into the process of divorce.

The discovery of Singrew’s body came after she was reported missing on 21 November. Circumstantial evidence linked the accused to the offence, leading to the arrests a few days later. Evidence, including surveillance footage and witness testimony, reportedly played a critical role in building the case.

Court Proceedings

During the schedule 6 bail hearing, the prosecution argued that the release of the suspects poses a risk that could endanger, intimidate, or influence witnesses and interfere with the investigation or cover up evidence. The state also cited the gravity of the crime and the strong evidence linking both men to the murder.

The defence attorney Clayton Samson, however, contended that his clients deserved the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. Despite these arguments, the defence could not discharge the onus placed on the accused to prove that they should be granted bail on the merit of exceptional circumstances. 

The magistrate ruled in favour of the prosecution, emphasising the seriousness of the charges and the public interest in ensuring justice.

Community outrage

The case has ignited widespread outrage in the local community. Residents attended the three-day bail hearing to express their desire for justice for Joan Singrew. Community leaders and activists have called for swift legal proceedings and harsh penalties for those found guilty.

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