The National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture Unit has been granted a restraint order against the Gupta family for their role in the Vrede Dairy Project.<\/p>\n
The unit said that the Bloemfontein High Court granted the order, which allowed it to seize assets from the family to the tune of R250 million.<\/p>\n
These assets are tied to “individuals and entities who were implicated in the offences of theft, fraud and money laundering in respect of the Vrede Dairy Project: Estina matter,” the NPA said.<\/p>\n
It came as a result of an ongoing criminal investigation being conducted by the Hawks.<\/p>\n
The R250 million in seized assets will be restrained pending the outcome of a criminal trial. If there is a conviction, the AFU will apply for a confiscation order for the recovery of the claimed amount.<\/p>\n
Among the assets seized are immovable property (residential and business premises, including farms), two aircrafts, a helicopter, vehicles and bank accounts belonging to certain entities.<\/p>\n
Gupta companies affected include Oakbay Investments, Islandsite Investments, Confidents Concept, Sahara Computer, Westdawn Investments, and Aerohaven Trading.<\/p>\n