Malema denies benefitting from VBS bank
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema says he's only being crucified over the VBS bank heist for wanting to save a black-owned entity.
The bank went under in 2018 when it was declared insolvent and placed under curatorship.
Over R2 billion was looted from the bank and transferred into individual accounts.
READ: ANC, EFF welcome VBS arrests
Last week, eight executives, including the bank's former CEO and CFO, were arrested for their alleged role in the theft and apparent coverup.
They've also been charged with fraud, corruption, money laundering and racketeering.
Malema and EFF Deputy President Floyd Shivambu have also been implicated.
It's alleged they used credit cards funded by VBS money to make purchases at high-end stores.
ALSO READ: Court grants bail to 7 accused in VBS Mutual Bank case
Addressing journalists at the party's headquarters in Braamfontein on Thursday, Malema denied ever benefitting from a single VBS cent.
"I still maintain, rescue a black bank - arrest the criminals. Hold them accountable, recover the money.
"The idea of a black bank being closed under a democratic government, under a government which never established any bank. That bank was established by the BaVenda King and existed under difficult times. Why should it be closed now," Malema questioned.
