Thunee card game dispute leaves Durban man in ICU after pool hall stabbing

A casual card game at a Silverglen pool hall spiralled into a violent confrontation, leaving 22-year-old Keith Govender from Westcliff in intensive care after being stabbed in the head, POST has reported.

Govender, who is currently on a ventilator, underwent emergency brain surgery following the incident. The altercation reportedly began during a thunee game, a competitive South African card game, and has resulted in mounting medical expenses of around R300,000 for his family.

Kaydin Pillay, a close friend of the victim, was present when the incident unfolded. He recalled that tensions flared during a heated moment in the game, leading to a verbal exchange between Govender and the 47-year-old suspect.

Pillay explained that the argument began when Govender called “thunee”—a high-stakes play in the game—and was caught by his teammate’s opponent. The suspect allegedly began swearing, prompting a brief argument. Although the confrontation initially appeared to cool down, things quickly escalated.

“He pointed his finger in Keith’s face and made a threat before walking away,” said Pillay. “A few moments later, he returned, punched Keith, and the two exchanged blows. The bartender stepped in to break it up.”

Unbeknownst to the group, the suspect had a pocketknife, which he used to stab the bartender in the hand before launching a second attack on Govender.

“He jumped over people and stabbed Keith in the head,” said Pillay, describing the moment as deeply traumatic. “Keith collapsed in my arms. He was bleeding from his head and nose and wasn’t responding.”

Pillay said the suspect appeared remorseful after the attack, but bystanders failed to assist. A friend eventually helped transport Govender to hospital, where he was rushed into surgery.

Doctors at Chatsmed Hospital performed a five-hour operation to remove the blade and address brain damage. Govender’s father, Ashlin Govender, said the injury was life-threatening and that the family is under immense emotional and financial pressure.

“He lost a lot of blood. The doctors saved him, but he’s still on a ventilator. We’re scared about what happens next—whether he’ll recover or have lasting damage,” he said.

The family is struggling to fund further scans and treatment after Govender aged out of their medical aid. They’ve been told he may need to be transferred to a public hospital if payments cannot be made, but are concerned about the level of care available.

“He’s a good, hardworking boy—non-violent and respectful. Now he’s lying in ICU over a card game,” said his father. “The suspect claims self-defence, but Keith didn’t even drink. He just went to play cards with friends.”

The family has appealed for community support through a BackaBuddy campaign to help cover Keith’s ongoing medical care.

Those wishing to assist can visit: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/save-keith-jeremiah

IOL News