Hawks: 'Serious concern' at state capture allegations

Former deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas told the commission on Friday that the Hawks attempted to sabotage the investigation into the Gupta family's attempt to bribe him.

In his testimony Jonas detailed how the head of the Hawks' anti-corruption unit allegedly tried to force him to sign a false statement in the wake of the alleged attempt by the Guptas to promote him to finance minister in 2015. 

"(Major General) Mnonopi said this was a DA matter and that I did not want to help the DA and they want to kill the matter," Jonas testified. 

In a short statement the Lebeya said while they are concerned about the allegations, they will not interrupt the process.

 "The DPCI [Hawks] is following the process closely and will apply the laws that are being invited. We support the work of the commission and will allow the witnesses to complete the testimony without distraction before enlisting their assistance in visiting the matter."

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Jonas also told how Ajay Gupta proposed to appoint him as the Minister of Finance in place of Nhlanhla Nene.

"He said everything they do is legal, and that they create jobs and contribute to the economy. He said at the moment they earn about R6 billion from the fiscus, through various entities including Eskom, Transnet and government departments. He said they wanted to increase the amount to R8 billion and they thought I could be helpful in this regard."

Jonas could be called back to give more testimony. 

The commission of inquiry continues on Monday with former African National Congress (ANC) MP Vytjie Mentor expected to take the stand.