Diamond dealer Louis Liebenberg abandons bail application

CAPE TOWN - Nine alleged diamond investment scammers appeared in Bronkhorstspruit Magistrates Court on Thursday.

The accused, who included Louis Liebenberg and his wife Desiree, face more than 50 charges related to fraud, racketeering and money laundering. 

The couple allegedly lured investors to invest more than R4 billion in buying and selling diamonds with the promise of high returns over a short period. 

READ: Ninth suspect nabbed in diamond investment scam

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA)'s regional spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana, said more counts will be added to the charge sheet. 

"Louis Liebenberg, who is the mastermind in the matter, and his wife indicated to the court that they will not be bringing their bail application at this stage."

However, Mahanjana said some of the other accused were released on bail. 

"Three of the accused were granted bail. The rest of the accused will bring their bail application in the next appearance."

The matter will be back in court again on 31 October.