'NPA must act on Chippy Shaik'

2007-05-24 22:05

Cape Town - The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) must act "decisively and expeditiously" in its investigation of Chippy Shaik, following confirmation he holds two passports, the Democratic Alliance said on Thursday.

"A reply - to a Democratic Alliance question - from the Department of Home Affairs indicates that arms deal kingpin Chippy Shaik holds two valid passports issued in 2001 and 2004 respectively," DA public accounts spokesperson Eddie Trent said in a statement.

According to the department's reply, which does not refer to Shaik by name but as "the person concerned", two passports were issued.

"It appears the person concerned failed to declare possession of the first passport when he applied for the second passport."

According to the department, if it is confirmed the second passport was obtained illegally, "steps to revoke the second passport will be instituted".

Trent said possession of a second passport could complicate a possible prosecution.

The DA has called on the NPA to investigate arms deal corruption allegations against Shaik, the brother of imprisoned Durban fraudster Schabir Shaik.

"It is therefore all the more incumbent on the NPA to act decisively and expeditiously in dealing with the investigations against and possible prosecution of Chippy Shaik for his alleged involvement in the arms deal scandals," Trent said.

- SAPA