Shrien Dewani To Be Extradited To South Africa To Stand Trial For Wife’s Murder

A judge decided British businessman Shrien Dewani ought to be flown back to Cape Town to answer charges that he plotted to have his then new wife, Anni, killed by hitmen according to The Guardian.

“Relatives of Ms Dewani said the ruling was an important step as they try to find out the full truth about what happened to the 28-year-old woman and the national prosecuting authority in South Africa called it an ‘important milestone.'”

The Independent reported “there have been delays in Mr. Dewani’s extradition case caused by his ill-health and he has undergone treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression since his wife’s death.”

The report continued on to say that close to 30 members of Anni’s family was in the court to hear the decision.

“They each wore a picture of Mrs Dewani, adorned with a pink ribbon.”

“Speaking outside the court building after the short hearing yesterday morning, they said they wished Mr Dewani a speedy recovery so that he could help them find the answers they seek. They added that they saw yesterday’s proceedings as just one more step down that road, rather than as a major victory.”

Ami Denborg, Annie’s sister, stated “For us it is all about Anni, it’s all about finding out what happened. We will fight this battle to the end and this battle has just begun. We just want to know what happened to Anni and this is one step. It’s been really hard on the family, we are struggling every day.”

So far, three men have been convicted for Anni’s death that took place in a taxi on the outskirts of Cape Town in November 2010.

In a statement released after the ruling, Mr Dewani’s family said:

“Lawyers acting for Shrien Dewani will review today’s judgment and lodge an appeal during which time Shrien will remain in the UK.

“Shrien Dewani remains unfit to be extradited or to face trial. Shrien remains committed to returning to South Africa when his health would permit a full trial and when appropriate protections are in place for his health and safety. The legal process in ongoing and it would be inappropriate to comment further.”

Anni’s family maintains that they simply want to find out the truth behind their daughter’s death, and they believe that the extradition of Shrien Dewani will help them in their efforts.

[Image via Birmingham Mail]