Nair is facing corruption charges for allegedly receiving kickbacks worth R200 000 in security upgrades to his property from Bosasa. Image: Twitter/@SAPoliceSerevice
Legal setback for suspended chief magistrate in corruption case
Suspended chief magistrate Desmond Nair faced a legal setback as the Pretoria court rejected the application to drop corruption charges.
Nair is facing corruption charges for allegedly receiving kickbacks worth R200 000 in security upgrades to his property from Bosasa. Image: Twitter/@SAPoliceSerevice
Suspended chief magistrate Desmond Nair faced a legal setback as the Pretoria specialised commercial crime court refused to dismiss charges.
In July 2023, Nair sought withdrawal, claiming insufficient evidence for a criminal trial.
The denial occurred as his lawyer stressed challenging the state witness’s credibility, according to Business Live.
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The court’s decision prompted Nair’s legal team to contemplate an appeal, prolonging the legal saga.
Nair is facing corruption charges for allegedly receiving kickbacks worth R200 000 in security upgrades to his property from Bosasa
LEGAL SETBACK ON CORRUPTION CASE FOR FORMER CHIEF MAGISTRATE
Nair, sought withdrawal in July 2023, arguing insufficient evidence for a criminal trial, as stated by his lawyer, Danie Dorfling.
The Pretoria specialised commercial crime court rejected the application to drop corruption charges on Tuesday, 23 January.
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National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Investigating Directorate spokesperson Sindisiwe Seboka revealed a 15 March postponement for Nair’s legal team to ponder appealing the decision.
Nair faces corruption charges alleging R200 000 kickbacks from Bosasa for security upgrades to his Pretoria property in September 2016.
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Enhancements included an electric fence, perimeter beams, an alarm, and CCTV systems, with the state accusing Nair of dishonesty and improper conduct.
Nair has been under suspension as a magistrate for over four years, despite his denial of receiving any such advantages from Bosasa.
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Former Bosasa employee Richard le Rouxin 2019 told the Zondo Commission of Inquiry into State Capture about the enhancements.
Given the seriousness of the allegations, Nair was suspended from his position.
