The R1.8 billion BOSASA and Correctional Services Department fraud and corruption matter has taken a new twist with the court deciding that “with or without” Angelo Agrizzi the trial will proceed.
Fraud accused and former BOSASA Chief Operations Officer Agrizzi has missed scheduled court appearances owing to ill health.
Even though Agrizi has failed to turn up in court he has appeared on television and reiterated his case of ill health.
When he appeared on eNCA television Agrizzi had tubes inserted in his nose and connected to a portable oxygen supply, which he said helped him breathe.
On Friday the Pretoria Specialised Crimes Court ordered that the matter be transferred to the high court at the next appearance.
“The Investigating Directorate (ID) will at the next appearance, come with the medical outcome after the state-appointed pulmonologist examines Angelo Agrizzi in a separate matter,” said Sindisiwe Seboka, ID Spokesperson
“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.”
The other accused in the matter is a former commissioner of correctional services (DCS) Linda Mti, former DCS chief financial officer (CFO) Patrick Gillingham, and former BOSASA CFO Andries Van Tonder.
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.
The R1.8 billion fraud and corruption matter has been deferred to 23 March 2022 when it will be heard in the high court – with or without Agrizzi.