DURBAN: Convicted fraudster Schabir Shaik was admitted to Albert Luthuli hospital here for hypertension and depression yesterday.

A KwaZulu-Natal health official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the correctional services department had "requested us to manage their patient who is suffering from hypertension and depression".

The KZN Department of Health said in a written statement that Shaik was admitted for observation after he was treated at the hospital's outpatient facility.

"This follows a recommendation from cardiologists in Cape Town ... suggesting that this patient be monitored in an academic institution where he can be closely monitored."

It did not divulge any details, saying patients had the right to have their medical details kept confidential.

Shaik's brother Mo referred all queries about his brother to the correctional services department.

Correctional services spokesman Manelisi Wolela did not respond to a message left for him. - Sapa

With acknowledgements to Sapa and Cape Times.