A MAN accused of murdering Kent taxi driver Gian Chand Bajar appeared at Maidstone Crown Court today.

At the brief hearing, Luke Aujila, of Dorchester Road, Gravesend, spoke only to be identified by the court clerk and to acknowledge he understood the proceedings.

Janet Garnons-Williams, prosecuting, said Aujila's mother Annette, 42, also of Dorchester Road, and brother Thomas, 25, of Gordon Road, Northfleet, had been charged with perverting the course of justice.

They appeared at Dartford magistrates court last Friday and will attend for a preliminary hearing at Maidstone Crown Court this Friday.

Father-of-five Mr Bajar was found lying seriously injured in St Benedict’s Avenue, Gravesend, late in the evening of May 23.

The 71-year-old respected community figure, of Darnley Road, Gravesend, had been run over by his own car, later found burnt out nearby. He died at Darent Valley Hospital.

Judge Andrew Patience, QC, remanded Aujila, 20, in custody until August 13, when he is expected to enter a plea to the charge.