Public Protector Lawrence Mushwana will not investigate arms deal bribery allegations against the defence force's former head of acquisitions, Chippy Shaik.

However, Mushwana said yesterday it was up to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to decide if the allegations warranted any further investigation in South Africa.

The call for a probe into Shaik by DA MP Eddie Trent in February was turned down by Mushwana, who said he could not, at this stage, proceed with an investigation as the allegation referred to criminal conduct which German authorities were looking into.

"The Public Protector does not have powers to conduct criminal investigations and to institute prosecutions.

"It is therefore for the NPA to decide whether the allegations made by (the German publication) Der Spiegel warrant any further investigation in South Africa, at this time," Mushwana said.

With acknowledgement to Wendy Jasson Da Costa and Cape Argus.