Pretoria biker shooting accused to remain behind bars until bail hearing

A 45-year-old man accused of killing one biker and injuring another in a shooting at a Pretoria pub will remain in custody until his next court appearance on 20 October.

Brian Smith appeared in the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court following the shooting at Little Britain Pub on Saturday, 10 October. He faces charges of murder and attempted murder.

Smith is accused of shooting Baden Watson, who died in the incident, and wounding Ruan van der Merwe before allegedly fleeing the scene on his motorcycle.

The state has indicated that it will oppose his release on bail.

Accused appears in court after fatal shooting

Smith made his first court appearance on Monday morning, with no visible motorcycle club colours or patches among those attending.

Sapa Yopa president Martins Antonio was present and has called for peace and accountability within the biking community following the incident. A small group believed to include Smith’s wife and friends also attended.

Smith is reportedly a member of the Crusaders motorcycle club, while the two men involved in the shooting are associated with the Mac Motorcycle Club.

Neither club had publicly commented on the incident at the time of the report.

During proceedings, Smith’s attorney, Andries Nkome, requested that photographs not be taken of his client, himself or other members of the legal team.

The case was postponed to 20 October, when Smith is expected to formally apply for bail.

Police share preliminary details

South African Police Service regional spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk previously said preliminary information suggested that one shot had been fired and one cartridge was recovered at the scene.

Police also suspected that the bullet passed through the injured man before striking the deceased.

These were preliminary details, and the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain subject to investigation.

Shortly after the incident, Little Britain Pub announced that motorcycle club patches would no longer be permitted on its premises, with the restriction taking effect immediately.

Tributes for Baden Watson as injured biker remains in hospital

Tributes have continued for Watson, who was remembered as a friend and a source of strength to those who knew him.

Van der Merwe remains in hospital following the shooting.

A family friend, who spoke anonymously because of fears of being targeted, said he was stable and under sedation in the intensive care unit.

As the investigation continues, the accused is due back in court on 20 October for his bail application. The state has indicated that it will oppose his release.

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Source: The Citizen