35 in court over land deals

The 35, comprising government employees, ordinary members of the public as well as businesspeople are accused of corrupt dealings in the acquisition of land under the Department of Lands and Housing. The properties include 85 plots in Francistown as well as two plots in Matshelagabedi. Because government has indicated that it intends to confiscate the said properties as well as 20 vehicles belonging to the 35 suspects, the defence attorneys and the State differed on the proper approach of the case as it involves criminal and civil matters. The State is alleging that the property in question was bought and registered with the Registrar of Deeds under corrupt practices. The case resumes on August 5.