Durban ‘terror’ suspects apply for bail

THE 11 men accused of a number of bomb attacks across the city appeared in the Verulam Magistrate’s Court yesterday for a formal bail application.

In their supporting affidavits, two of the accused, wealthy businessmen Farhad Hoomer, 42, and Ahmad Haffejee, 28, have described themselves as breadwinners for their families.

Hoomer and Haffejee and nine other accused face charges of murder, attempted murder, violation of the explosives act, arson, extortion and the illegal possession of firearms.

In his affidavit, Hoomer stated that he intended pleading not guilty to the charges against him.

Hoomer runs a number of businesses which includes buying and selling property, as well as the importation of goods into South Africa and the buying and selling of gold.

He said the turnover of his business was R5 million a month and he employed six people.

Hoomer has two wives and is a father of eight children who were dependent on him financially and emotionally. His wife, Nadia Hoomer, died six months ago and he was the primary care-giver to their children, aged 22, 17 and 12.

Hoomer said in accordance with his religion, he was permitted to have more than one wife.

He is married to Hanane Hoomer, with whom he has two daughters, aged 7 and 5.

He further states that in terms of Islamic law, he is also married to Imaan Hoomer. They have 1-year-old twins together and she recently gave birth to their third child.

Hoomer said that none of his wives were employed or could drive and they were reliant on him financially and to take his children to and from school. “I intend pleading not guilty to all charges and I am confident that I can successfully defend myself against the flimsy State case,” he said. .

Haffajee, the son of a well-known doctor, also intends pleading not guilty.

He has three children aged 2, 4, and 6, and his wife is four months’ pregnant with their fourth child.

Haffajee owns Hafmed Distributors and Ushaka Mega Building in Shakaskraal. The asset value of the businesses amount to R2.5 million and he was the sole provider for his family, he said in his affidavit.

The remaining suspects who are also still in custody are: Thabit Said Mwenda, 28; Mohammed Akbar, 21; Mohammed Seidth, 24; Amani Mayan; Abubakari Ali, 41; Abasi Juma, 41; Muhammed Adil Sobrun, 19; Omar Iddy, 38, and Ndikumana Shabani Umande, 42. The hearing continues.