R1.8bn tender corruption trial set for March

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This after the Pretoria Specialised Crimes Court ordered that the matter be transferred to the High Court.

The matter relates to alleged fraud and corruption committed during the awarding of four Department of Correctional Services (DCS) tenders amounting to at least R1.8 billion.

Agrizzi’s co-accused in the matter are former Correctional Services Commissioner Linda Mti, former DCS chief financial officer (CFO), Patrick Gillingham and former Bosasa CFO, Andries Van Tonder.

National Prosecuting Authority Investigating Directorate (ID) spokesperson, Sindisiwe Seboka, said Agrizzi’s appearance will depend on a State medical report on his condition and ability to stand trial.

“The ID will, at the next appearance, come with the medical outcome after the State-appointed pulmonologist examines Angelo Agrizzi in a separate matter. The outcome therein will impact his eligibility to stand trial in this matter.

“The ID, however, has made concessions that Agrizzi’s co-accused matter will be transferred to the High Court, with or without Agrizzi,” she said.

Seboka explained that the case refers to alleged corruption perpetrated over a three-year period.

“The matter relates to four tenders awarded to Bosasa and its subsidiaries between August 2004 and 2007. The tender was for rendering catering and training services, installation of CCTV cameras, installing the perimeter fencing and supplying a television system and monitoring equipment,” she said.