The Heath special investigating unit had applied for a presidential proclamation to investigate the country's R32bn arms deal, spokeswoman Naomi Goodley said yesterday. This comes at the same time that defence force chiefs are expected to appear before Parliament's public accounts committee tomorrow, for questioning on irregularities in the arms procurement package.

Those involved in the arms deal have been called to appear before the committee, which will also consider Auditor-General Shauket Fakie's report on the financial management of the SA National Defence Force. Goodley said the move followed a careful study of Fakie's report, which was released last month. The report pointed to deviations from generally accepted arms procurement practices. Fakie also recommended an audit of the deal's subcontracts, which were outside the scope of his probe, and have been the subject of corruption claims.

Gavin Woods, the chairman of the public accounts committee, said he was surprised at the timing of the unit's application, coming ahead of the parliamentary hearings. "It is a bit surprising Judge (Willem) Heath has decided not to wait until Parliament finishes its investigations," Woods said. 

If the Heath unit's application is approved, it will become the third body to probe the deal. Public Protector Selby Baqwa and the investigating directorate for serious economic offences are also looking into the matter.

With acknowledgement to Business Day.