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Tight security ahead of Malema's court appearance

Polokwane - Tight security measures had been put in place ahead of the appearance of Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema at the High Court in Polokwane on Monday.

Barbed wire was spread across the street in front of the court and five police vehicles and a nyala were parked several metres away.

Groups of police officers were standing at both sides of the blocked road.

At the entrance of the court, a handful of security guards were monitoring the activity.

Outside court, journalists were setting up their cameras and gazebos.

Two correctional services vehicles with blaring sirens were parked in front of the court from early morning.

There was however, no sign of EFF protesters who were expected to demonstrate outside the court during the appearance of their leader.

The group had held a night vigil for Malema at the Jack Botes Hall.

Malema's trial was postponed last September as some counsel were not available.

He and his co-accused, On-Point Engineering directors Lesiba Gwangwa and Kagisho Dichabe, face charges of racketeering, fraud, corruption, and money-laundering.

According to court papers, Malema allegedly had business ties with Gwangwa. Malema's Ratanang Family Trust was an indirect shareholder in On-Point Engineering.

The State alleges that Malema and his co-accused misrepresented themselves to the Limpopo roads and transport department, leading to a R52 million contract being awarded to On-Point Engineering.

It was alleged that Malema used some of the money to buy a farm and a Mercedes-Benz.

Malema is out on R10 000 bail, while the others are out on bail of R40 000 each.

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