Frank Buyanga ‘critically’ ill in South Africa jail – lawyers
By Staff Reporter
Forgotten Zimbabwean millionaire Frank Buyanga Sadiqi, jailed in South Africa 2022 over alleged kidnapping, fraud and financial crimes, has reportedly fallen critically ill with lawyers calling on South African courts to expedite review of his case.
“Sadiqi has fallen ill in hospital. He has been subjected to unlawful detention, procedural irregularities and a blatant miscarriage of justice,” his Hamilton Foundation lawyers have said.
Buyanga was arrested on November 29, 2022 facing the alleged offences.
He was taken to court for his first appearance on December 7, 2022.
Lawyers argue the tormented tycoon’s detention violated sections of South Africa’s Criminal Procedure Act, which compel law enforcement agents to bring a suspect within 48 hours of their arrest.
His subsequent attempts to secure freedom have all come to nought.
Buyanga recently offered R12 million as bail, but was turned down.
He also faces charges of conspiring to escape from prison, an allegation dismissed as false by his lawyers who accuse South African authorities of fabricating the offence in order to create grounds for the flamboyant businessman’s bail denial.
“This allegation has further compromised his right to a fair trial,” said the lawyers.
“The statement demands the immediate and unconditional release of Sadiqi, dismissal of all charges and a thorough investigation into the abuses of power by the Hawks, SAPS and other involved authorities.
“The Judiciary is urged to expedite the review of Sadiqi’s case and ensure that justice is served without further delay. The statement also appeals to the judicial and executive community, human rights organisations and all people of conscience to stand in solidarity with Sadiqi.
“As reported earlier, Sadiqi’s detention has taken a toll on his health, with reports indicating that he has fallen sick in prison. His supporters argue that his prosecution is ‘concocted and malicious’ and that he has been denied his fundamental rights, including access to private medical healthcare.”
