/ 27 May 2008

Shaik moved to critical-care unit of Durban hospital

Fraud convict Schabir Shaik has been admitted to the critical care unit of Durban’s Inkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital, his brother, Mo, said on Monday.

Mo said this was because of fears that his high blood pressure could lead to heart problems.

Schabir was first admitted to the hospital on April 1 and has been there ever since.

He has reportedly been suffering from severe hypertension.

Asked for further details, Mo referred all enquires to the Department of Correctional Services.

Correctional services spokesperson Manelisi Wolela could not be reached for comment.

KwaZulu-Natal health spokesperson Chris Maxxon confirmed that Schabir had been moved to critical care, but could not provide further details.

Schabir was convicted in 2005 by Judge Hillary Squires on two counts of corruption and one of fraud, and sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment.

Shaik started his sentence in November 2006 after numerous appeals failed. He has spent lengthy periods in hospital since his incarceration. — Sapa