THE Scorpions' investigation into a number of companies linked to South Africa's multi-billion rand arms deal, and whose offices were raided in three countries on Tuesday, could be concluded before the end of the month.

The unit's head, Percy Sonn, addressing the Pretoria Press Club on Wednesday, declined to comment on whether he anticipated any further charges to be laid based on the evidence gathered so far.

Scorpions investigators on Tuesday raided premises in Durban, Mauritius and France. Sonn said the searches were carried out to "tie up loose leads" and to corroborate evidence already in the unit's possession. "We are looking for specific leads. We are not scratching and scratching to see what falls out of the ceiling."

Whether or not the investigations would be extended would depend on what was found from the evidence gathered already, Sonn said. 

With acknowledgment to Sapa and The Mail & Guardian.