This is despite the state’s persistent request for denial of bail on account that it will erode the public’s faith in the South African justice system. 

On Monday 7 June, Thabethe appeared briefly alongside Gupta associate Iqbal Sharma in the dock after spending the weekend in the cells of the Bainsvlei Police Station. Sharma was removed from the dock to consult with his legal representative, Johannes Coetzee, whilst Thabethe went ahead with his bail application. The latter was represented by Willem Edeling. 

Magistrate De Lange says the state’s view, that granting bail will erode the public’s confidence in the justice system, is ruled by public perception and South African courts do not function based on public perception.

She further adds that Thabethe is currently facing similar charges in the Bloemfontein High Court and has not evaded arrest or attempted to interfere with witnesses - a further indication as to why he should be released on bail. The men’s co-accused, Limakatso Moorosi and Seipati Dlamini, were granted R10 000 bail each on Thursday 3 June. Proceedings pertaining to Sharma’s bail application will only resume at 14:00 in the Regional Court.

The accused were arrested in connection with a feasibility study of more than R24 million that took place in 2011 that was given to Gupta-linked Nulane Investments to ascertain the feasibility of the Vrede Dairy Project under the "Mohoma Mobung" initiative. Nulane Investments is owned by accused number 4 in the matter - Sharma. It’s alleged Nulane roped in Deloitte to conduct the feasibility study for the FS Agri Department, which they did for only R 1,5 million. Nulane then subcontracted the work already carried out by Deloitte to Gateway Limited and paid them R19 million.

The state - represented by Jacyntha Witbooi - alleges the funds were laundered into varied accounts thereafter.

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