The court ruled that Ziyadh Hoorzook is not a flight risk and allowed his release under a bail of 1,616 USD (30,000 rand). Law enforcement had argued he might evade trial, but Hoorzook insists he was unaware of any terrorist affiliations.
The alleged offense occurred in 2017, but Hoorzook was arrested only in early 2023. The charges relate to the Protection of Constitutional Democracy Act, and critics deem the prosecution excessive given the low donation amount involved.
Successful prosecution may enhance South Africa’s efforts to be removed from the FATF grey list, while authorities are increasingly scrutinizing crypto transactions to tighten regulatory measures.