Thatcher gets R2m bail
2004-08-25 16:59
Cape Town - Sir Mark Thatcher, son of former British prime minister Margaret Thatcher, was released on R2m bail in the Wynberg regional court on Wednesday afternoon.
Thatcher, 49, was smartly dressed in a dark suit as he stood in the dock before magistrate Awie Kotze.
The courtroom was packed with journalists who had waited all day, either at his home in Constantia or at the court building for his appearance.
Prosecutor Torie Pretorius, attached to the priority criminal investigation unit, appeared for the State.
Pretorius told the court that Thatcher faced two charges - contravention of the Foreign Military Assistance Act and conspiracy to contravene the act.
Thatcher was arrested earlier on Wednesday by the Scorpions in connection with his alleged role in an alleged aborted coup attempt in Equatorial Guinea.
According Pretorius, Thatcher allegedly bankrolled the aborted coup attempt to the extent of $275 000.
Thatcher was released on condition that he lodge with the clerk of the court a bank guarantee - or a bond of security - or security comprising fixed or moveable property to the satisfaction of the State for the amount of R2m.
This has to be done by 14:00 on September 6.
Kotze warned Thatcher to comply strictly with the bail conditions, and added: "You obviously know what the consequences will be if you fail to comply."
The case was postponed to November 25 for further investigation.
- SAPA