Gumede case postponed for finalisation of audit report
The State has just three months to finalise a lengthy forensic audit report in the fraud and corruption case against former eThekwini mayor, Zandile Gumede and 16 co-accused.
Gumede and some of the other accused appeared in the Durban Commercial Crimes Court this morning.
They’re facing charges relayed to a multi-million Durban solid waste tender.
State prosecutor, Ashika Lucken told the court the investigators need about three months to conclude the audit report which is about 350 000 pages long.
The court heard the report includes invoices, requisitions, bank statements, documents and other data from the search and seizures and interviews with witnesses - among other things.
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Lucken also confirmed the State had been served with a written notice about an intention by Gumede's attorney - Jay Naidoo - to have the matter struck off the roll.
A quick adjournment has been asked for by #ZandileGumede’s attorney, ADV,Jay Naidoo. Earlier state prosecutor, Ashika Luckan told the court that the state would like a 3 month adjournment in the matter for the completion of an audit report. pic.twitter.com/ev2y8V9Ekb
— Nushera Soodyal (@nushera) September 10, 2020
After a short adjournment to consult with his clients - Naidoo told the court he'd like to postpone this application to the next court appearance in December - should the State's audit report isn't ready.
Magistrates Dawn Somaroo ruled that if the report isn't complete by then, an inquiry will be held.
