Convicted businessman Schabir Shaik arrived at Durban's Westville Prison in the back of a police van which had its blue lights flashing on Thursday.

About 40 journalists gathered outside the prison entrance mobbed the van in an attempt to get the last snapshot of ANC deputy president Jacob Zuma's former financial advisor.

Prison authorities quickly closed the gates behind the van. Two lone Shaik supporters each raised their left fist at the prison gate.

Moments later a cavalcade of cars arrived with Shaik's family and lawyers.

Shaik's brother Mo refused to talk to journalists saying he had already issued a statement.

With acknowledgement to Sapa and Independent On Line.