Security beefed up for 'mobster'

17 November 2015 - 09:13 By GRAEME HOSKEN

Israeli mobster suspect Shai Musli - fighting extradition from South Africa - is being held under tight security. Appearing in the Randburg Magistrate's Court yesterday, Musli, whom Israeli police claim heads one of that country's most feared crime families, was closely guarded by police.The police had information that there were plans to help him escape.Musli was arrested last month at Montecasino, in Fourways, Johannesburg.He is believed to have been in South Africa since 2011.South African police learned that he was living in this country in June, when they were tipped off by Interpol.Israeli police want him extradited to stand trial on a number of allegations, including conspiracy to commit murder.The conspiracy charges, according to the Jerusalem Post, relate to alleged plans to murder mobster rivals.Yesterday, magistrate Pravina Ragoonandan postponed the hearing so that the state and Musli's defence team could be shown the extradition papers.A police source with information about the plans to help Musli escape said the police were "expecting something"."That is why the additional officers, who were undercover, were both inside and outside the court."The information is that any attempt [to free Musli] will not be made by one of his usual court supporters, who include friends and family, but instead by someone from outside the country."All that the police officers involved in the case have been told is that an attempt could be made some time soon," the officer said.Despite the additional security, Musli appeared unfazed.He stood in the dock, grinning, and was laughing and high-fiving friends and supporters as he was led out of court after his case was postponed...

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