/ 25 January 2007

Extradition forces postponement of Agliotti case

Brett Kebble murder accused Glenn Agliotti had his case postponed to June 20 in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.

Scorpions prosecutor Gerrie Nel told the court: ”It’s a fairly lengthy postponement date but the state is involved in extradition proceedings to ensure other accused appear in this matter.”

Magistrate Simon Radasi granted the postponement.

Standing with his hands clasped behind his back, Agliotti answered: ”Yes your worship, thank you”.

Speaking after proceedings, neither Nel nor Scorpions spokesperson Makhosini Nkosi would reveal who was being sought for extradition.

However, Nel said in Agliotti’s previous court appearance on December 13 last year that the state intended adding John Stratton, one of the co-directors of Kebble’s JCI company, to the case. Stratton is currently living in Australia.

Kebble was CEO of JCI, Randgold & Exploration and also Western Areas until he was forced out on August 31 2005.

Nkosi told journalists on Thursday: ”It’s difficult to say that [the man sought for extradition] is going to be the only one, but at least one person will be extradited.”

He said it was too early to say whether the country the suspect is living in will cooperate with South African authorities, but that South Africa has an extradition treaty with it.

”On June 20 we should be able to set a trial date, but bear in mind that the extradition process can have a life of its own,” said Nkosi.

Agliotti was released on bail of R500 000 at his December 13 court appearance. He was, however, placed under 24-hour house arrest and can only leave his R6,5-million Bryanston home with the written permission of either Nel or the investigating officer.

Agliotti was also charged earlier this month with drug trafficking by the Alberton Regional Court, following a multimillion-rand drug bust. — Sapa