Attorney to continue representing Modack, co-accused after ethical issue delays trial

CAPE TOWN - A defence attorney in the trial of alleged underworld gang-boss, Nafiz Modack, will be allowed to continue after the matter was delayed on Wednesday due to an ethical issue.

Modack and his 14 co-accused face over 120 charges related to various crimes, including murder, extortion and racketeering.

The defence attorney in question, Nazeer Parkar, who currently represents three of Modack's co-accused, admitted to previously receiving payments from a company allegedly used by Modack to pay some of the accused to commit crimes.

Hawks officer, Edward du Plessis, previously presented evidence that the money was allegedly extorted from a luxury car dealership, The Toy Shop.  

After hearing submissions from the State, who questioned Parkar's ability to proceed without prejudice, Parkar told the court his clients were happy for him to continue representing them without fear or favour.

Judge Robert Henney questioned three accused, who all agreed they wanted Parkar to proceed as their attorney. 

The matter will be back in court on Thursday.