The family of Kubendran Sholan Chinnadu, a father of two who was shot and killed in Pietermaritzburg six years ago, has found solace in his killer being convicted.
Trevor Chunderpersad was found guilty of Chinnadu’s murder by the Pietermaritzburg Regional Court last Friday.
Sentencing proceedings are expected next month.
Chinnadu, 29, an electrician from Northdale, was shot outside a tuckshop on July 11, 2020, following a dispute about “making noise” with the car he was driving.
At the time, the POST reported that Chinnadu had left his home that evening to drop off a friend and they stopped at a tuckshop.
During this time, an altercation occurred between a passenger and a resident, who had complained about the loud noise emanating from the car.
It was reported that gunshots were fired, and Chinnadu, who was seated in the vehicle, was shot in the back and died at the scene.
Following the judgment, Chinnadu’s elder brother, Sherwin, said the family was relieved that the process had ended.
“It has been six long and painful years of attending court and countless adjournments. But we were patient and believe the correct decision was made. While this is the end of a chapter, it will not bring my brother back.
“For his two sons, who were only aged eight and two at the time, it is the greatest loss. We are there for them, but children, especially boys, need their fathers. He was not present for many special moments, such as their sports days, award ceremonies, birthdays, and other milestone events.”
He said Chinnadu was the sole-breadwinner for his wife and sons.
“It has also been difficult for our parents, as he was the youngest of three siblings. My brother was wonderful, responsible and jovial. He never had an altercation in his life.
“His life was dedicated to ensuring his family was well taken care of. We miss him and feel his loss every single day. Time does not make it any easier,” he said.
The family is now calling for a maximum sentence.
“Such senseless actions, which rob a person of their life and a family of a loved one, require harsh consequences. We therefore call on the court to impose the maximum sentence.”
