Angelo Agrizzi

Angelo Agrizzi in one of his court appearances. Image via: Investigating Directorate.

Just In: Angelo Agrizzi moved to private hospital after his condition worsens

Although former Bosasa COO Angelo Agrizzi has tested negative for COVID-19, he is still battling a respiratory condition.

Angelo Agrizzi

Angelo Agrizzi in one of his court appearances. Image via: Investigating Directorate.

Although former Bosasa Chief Operations Officer (COO) Angelo Agrizzi tested negative for COVID-19 on Friday 16 October, he is struggling with respiratory complications. According to his lawyer, his condition has worsened over the last few days, which has led to him being moved from a public hospital to a private hospital. 

Agrizzi was rushed to hospital on Thursday after just one night in a prison cell after being denied bail.

Meanwhile, the Investigating Directorate confirmed that the Bosasa and Correctional Services fraud case had been postponed on Friday.

ANGELO AGRIZZI’S CONDITIONS INTENSIFIES 

When The South African contacted Agrizzi’s lawyer Daniel Witz on Friday 16 October, he said he was “stable but under observation”. Witz could also confirm that he received a negative COVID-19 test result. 

“He is under-going various tests and being monitored by the excellent staff at the hospital. He is currently in a public hospital,” said Witz. 

“As he is a ward of the state, having been denied bail, he has to attend a public hospital,” he added. 

On Thursday, it was reported that Agrizzi had been rushed to hospital on account of breathing problems. Now, on Monday 19 October, Witz said Agrizzi has been moved to a private hospital in Johannesburg on account of his condition.  

According to Witz, correctional services also confirmed the move as there was a recommendation from Agrizzi’s doctor, as well as a request from his family. When asked if he could elaborate on Agrizzi’s condition, Witz said; “not at this stage”. 

In the meantime, Witz said they are awaiting a date from the high court for the appeal argument. 

BOSASA AND CORRECTIONAL SERVICES R1.8 BILLION FRAUD CASE POSTPONED

The Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court postponed the R1.8 billion Department of Correctional Services (DCS) tender fraud matter involving Bosasa to 26 November 2020.

“This is to give the defense an opportunity for full disclosures of the case docket. The accused are former (DCS) Commissioner, Linda Mti;  former DCS Chief Financial Officer, Patrick Gillingham;  former Bosasa Chief Financial Officer, Andries Van Tonder, and former Chief Operations Officer Angelo Agrizzi,” said Investigating Directorate Spokesperson Sindisiwe Twala on Friday. 

The case was postponed in Agrizzis’ absentia and the court was notified that he had been admitted to the hospital.

According to Twala, they all face charges of fraud, conspiracy to commit fraud, corruption, and money laundering and the charges are in connection with four tenders awarded to Bosasa and its subsidiaries valued at over R1.8 billion, between August 2004 up to 2007. 

“Contracts were for the rendering of catering and training services, installation of CCTV cameras, perimeter fencing and the supply of television systems, and monitoring equipment,” said Twala.