George Louka set for extradition hearing

2012-05-12 16:22

Johannesburg - Strip club boss Lolly Jackson's alleged murderer will appear in a Cypriot court for an extradition hearing that could bring him back to South Africa, the Saturday Star reported.

George Louka, accused of killing Jackson at a house in Edenglen near OR Tambo airport on 3 May 2010, was arrested by Cypriot police in March after evading capture by the South African police force.

He was also wanted for theft, possession of suspected stolen property and fraud.

The hearing was reportedly scheduled for Monday.

Sean Newman, a former spokesperson for Jackson's strip club chain Teazers, said it was "premature to get excited about George being extradited."

"Look at the [Shrien] Dewani case. Authorities took action immediately with that, and he is still not here. So I'm not holding my breath that there will be an outcome soon," he said.

Forensic consultant Paul O'Sullivan told the newspaper that Louka would be able to also assist police regarding organised crime syndicates and corruption within the police service if he was sent back to South Africa.

Louka's lawyer suggested in March that his client be released, but the request was refused with the judge citing the serious allegations against him.

His bail application was later abandoned.

"We are confident that having compiled with all the legislative aspects, we will have him extradited to South Africa," said National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Mthunzi Mhaga at the time.

- SAPA