JOHANNESBURG — The Constitutional Court’s dismissal of an application by convicted fraudster Schabir Shaik was a victory for the Asset Forfeiture Unit, the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions said yesterday.

Billy Downer, SC, who was the leading prosecutor in the corruption case against Shaik, said some R40 million will now be deposited into the Crime Assets Recovery Account. That is the amount derived from seizing Shaik’s assets, including interest.

“That money will be used in a dedicated manner to fight crime, such as offering victims support and shelter for rape victims,” Downer told Sapa in Johannesburg. “It is a real victory for the Asset Forfeiture Unit.”

At the Constitutional Court, Justice Kate O’Regan said the state established that benefits “flowed" to Shaik and his companies (Nkobi Holdings and Nkobi Investments) as a result of Jacob Zuma’s support and intervention.

Comments: [Post a Comment]

Posted by d.chetty on 30 May 2008 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

why is one man paying the price When there are two that are involved in this racket.If schabir is charged positively why is Zuma trying to keep himself out of court.Are our people blind to see what our struggle is for.If one is found guilty then the other hand that claps freely should be brought to justice irrespective of where other people that follow your irresponsible behaviour,charges for corruption,deciet have placed you....your day in court must come..just like you wanted it

With acknowledgements to Sapa and The Witness.