The Heath Special Investigating Unit, which has been probing alleged irregularities in a R30-billion arms procurement deal, is on the verge of requesting a presidential proclamation to launch a full-scale investigation into several high-profile personalities connected with the deal.

Among the key personalities who could fall under the spotlight, if President Thabo Mbeki authorises the probe into alleged kickbacks and irregularities, are former Nedlac member Jayendra Naidoo, who was central to the clinching of the armaments and weapons upgrade purchase, and Chippy Shaik, chief acquisitions officer for the Defence Department.

The Heath unit has been engaged in a preliminary probe of the arms acquisition deal since late last year, after taking receipt of a large volume of evidence from Patricia de Lille, the PAC's parliamentary chief whip.

With acknowledgement to the Star.