While there is still speculation about the whereabouts of the Gupta brothers, Atul and Ajay, everything seems normal at their compound in Saxonwold.
Speaking to security personnel at the gate of the Gupta home, they would not divulge much but said everything is as usual at this home.
Several luxury cars were visible in the yard and several other cars were parked outside. There was not much activity seen, but the cars suggested otherwise.
One neighbour, who wished to remain anonymous due to fear of victimisation, said she doesn’t believe that the Gupta family has left the country forever. “They might be out for now but I don’t think it’s for good.”
According to reports, Atul and Ajay Gupta left South Africa on 7 April, shortly after an emotional meeting with their executives. The reports stated that the brothers left in their private jet from Lanseria Airport and were headed to Dubai where one of the brothers, Tony had been living for some months.
Other reports suggested that the Gupta brothers are actually in Dubai for Ajay’s eldest son, Kamal’s wedding, because he wanted to get married ‘as far away from South Africa as possible’. This after the 2013 scandal a Gupta wedding sparked when guests were allowed to land a chartered jet at Air Force Base Waterkloof.
Spokesperson for their business, Oakbay Investments, could not confirm or deny that the Gupta brothers had left the country. “The Gupta family has no further comment at this time, and will not be detailing the individual movements of family members. The onus is now on the business establishment and the banks to do the right thing,” read the response to questions sent to them.
The Gupta family has been embroiled in a number of scandals recently and has been in the headlines. The family is accused of state capture. Some prominent politicians have come out and said they were offered cabinet positions by the Guptas at their Saxonwold home.
EWN also reported that Oakbay Investments will begin damage control to restore relationships with banks that have withdrawn their services. Three banks are reported to have given the company until the end of May to make alternative plans before all ties are cut and their accounts are closed.
