Honeymoon murder suspect will appeal extradition to South Africa

Lawyers acting for honeymoon murder suspect Shrien Dewani intend to appeal against a ruling that he should be extradited from the UK to South Africa to face trial over his wife’s death.

Dewani is suspected of ordering the killing of his new wife Anni, 28, who was shot as the couple travelled in a taxi on the outskirts of Cape Town in November 2010.

Chief Magistrate Howard Riddle told Westminster Magistrates’ Court this morning that the 33-year old businessman should return to the country, despite arguments by his defence team that he could suffer setbacks in his mental health if sent back now.

They argued that the decision should be delayed by six months.

Dewani has undergone treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression since his wife’s death.

District Judge Riddle said: “It is not in question that Shrien Dewani will be returned to South Africa. The treating clinicians continue to state that Mr Dewani will recover.

"There has been recovery, but it has been slow. It may be a long time before Mr Dewani is fit to plead, but he may be closer to that point."

But in a statement released after the ruling, Dewani’s family said his legal team will review today’s judgment and lodge an appeal, during which time he will remain in the UK.

"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 statement read.

Anni Dewani's sister, Ami Denborg, said today that the family were satisfied with the decision.

“For us it is all about Anni, it’s all about finding out what happened,” she said.

“We will fight this battle to the end and this battle has just begun.”

Dewani’s legal team gave no immediate indication whether they would seek to challenge the ruling in the Supreme Court, the UK’s highest court.