Honeymoon murder accused Shrien Dewani in court

A businessman accused of hiring a hitman to murder his wife on their honeymoon should be remanded in custody for his own safety, a court heard today.

The South African authorities said Shrien Dewani, 31, should have his bail revoked after he apparently tried to kill himself by taking an overdose of medication.

Belmarsh Magistrates' Court heard police feared he might die after he was rushed to Bristol Royal Infirmary by ambulance when his sister dialled 999 on Sunday evening.

She discovered him collapsed in his bedroom after swallowing a cocktail of 46 pills, including diazepam prescribed to counter anxiety and help him sleep.

District Judge Howard Riddle was told Mr Dewani quickly recovered at hospital where he stayed overnight as a brain scan and blood tests were undertaken.

Ben Watson, for the South African authorities, said Mr Dewani took a "massive drug overdose" after telling his family he wanted to take his own life.

He said the South Africa Government fear the suicide attempt means he may fail to attend proceedings and that detaining him in custody is "necessary" for his safety.

Mr Watson added: "This raises concerns as to Mr Dewani's mental health and it raises the issue as to whether he should now be detained in custody on account of his mental condition."