The British man accused of arranging his new wife’s murder in South Africa was today ordered to appear in court after claiming “severe post traumatic stress” had left him unable to attend.
Lawyers for Shrien Dewani, 31, said he was clinically depressed and could not attend today’s extradition hearing at Belmarsh Magistrates’ Court. It was the second time in three weeks he has missed court due to “stress”
But setting the next date in court District Judge Howard Riddle ordered that Dewani must be present.
Dewani’s counsel, Julian Knowles, said: “The condition is a severe post traumatic stress disorder and he also continues to be clinically depressed.”
He added that Dewani is to be examined by a psychiatrist later this month.
The Bristol care homes boss is accused of hiring a hitman to kill his Swedish wife Anni, 28, during their honeymoon in South Africa.
Mr Dewani, is facing charges of conspiracy to murder, murder, kidnapping, robbery and obstruction of justice, and could be extradited to South Africa.
To help him fight the charges and the possible extradition order, the Bristol businessman has contacted Taswell Papier, one of South Africa’s most successful lawyers.
