Army gives Guptagate a second go

28 May 2014 - 02:00 By Graeme Hosken
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The Gupta familys' chartered aeroplane at Air Force Base Waterkloof. File photo.
The Gupta familys' chartered aeroplane at Air Force Base Waterkloof. File photo.
Image: Pictures: WALDO SWIEGERS

The defence force has launched a second investigation into the April 2013 landing of an aircraft privately chartered by the politically connected Gupta family at Air Force Base Waterkloof.

Defence force spokesman Brigadier-General Xolani Mabanga said yesterday: "An application to consider charges against an additional accused was forwarded to the director of military prosecutions for consideration. The decision is pending."

President Jacob Zuma was accused of using his "No1" status to allow the landing but was exonerated.

Multiple investigations by government departments and parliament placed the blame on three air force officers and ambassador Bruce Koloane, former chief of state protocol.

SA National Defence Union national secretary Pikkie Greeff said: "All indications are that the defence force has no case and is desperately trying to find something to prop up its case.

"[It is] obvious that the military is on a fishing expedition."

He said the union would demand the withdrawal of all charges, failing which it would turn to the courts.

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