The attorney of controversial diamond trader Louis Liebenberg spent the weekend in police cells for failure to comply with an order by an insolvency inquiry commissioner, Netwerk24 reports.

Walter Niedinger was arrested last Thursday and reportedly remains in custody.

He was ordered by the commissioner of an inquiry in terms of section 417 and 418 into the affairs of Tariomix to hand over certain documents.

Niedinger allegedly failed to do so but claimed he needs more time to get the documents together.

Niedinger was taken to the Cullinan Magistrate’s Court yesterday where he told the media his detention is unlawful and unconstitutional as the matter is a civil one.

Liebenberg did not attend court to support his lawyer. 

The liquidators of Tariomix said Niedinger will remain in custody until he complies with the commissioner’s order.

The next inquiry hearing involving Niedinger is only scheduled for 18 September.

Full Netwerk24 report (subscription needed)