Second probe into Guptagate starts

THE SA National Defence Force has launched a second investigation into the controversial landing of a privately chartered aircraft at the Waterkloof Air Force Base by the powerful Gupta family.

The additional investigation comes a year after the Jet Airways Boeing 777 – transporting more than 200 passengers from India for Vega Gupta and Aakash Jahajgarhia's wedding – landed at the base in April last year.

Defence force spokesman Brigadier-General Xolani Mabanga said an additional investigation was under way, while another was still pending.

Although exonerated, President Jacob Zuma was at the centre of the furore after allegations emerged that he instructed that the aircraft be allowed to land.

SA National Defence Union national secretary Pikkie Greeff said they were surprised by the additional investigation as the accused had already been charged. "All indications are that the defence force has no case and are desperately trying to find something to prop up their case." – Graeme Hosken