‘Our researchers have been looking at the documents through the night and they appear to show prima facie evidence that some – perhaps all – of these sales are irregular.’

Another of those weasel words. ‘Irregular’. ‘Corrupt’ would be the right one.

‘We, South Trust, are not an investigative agency. Our only interest, in accordance with our mandate, is to determine the causes of the recent unrest in South Africa and, if at all possible, to try to mediate between the competing parties. We have decided, therefore, not to publish the documents as yet. We have instead handed copies to the relevant authorities in South Africa and, indeed, here in London. Once we have had representations from our legal advisers we hope to publish the documents on our website, though, as I say, that will primarily be a legal decision and, of course, not ours alone. The authorities in both countries will have their own views on the matter.’

He could barely bring himself to continue.

‘Now I want to turn to a related matter. You are, no doubt, aware of developments in South Africa overnight, which, according to the South African authorities, are linked to the murder of Lesedi Motlantshe last week. Two people are in custody …’

Anton’s colleague leaned towards him and pointed to something on her phone. He couldn’t tell what he was supposed to be looking at. She pulled the microphone towards her. ‘Sorry to interrupt. It seems a third person is in custody. A former government employee turned campaigner. Thanks, Anton.’

He wished she would just carry on, finish the job.

‘A British national is also being questioned, not under arrest, I must make that clear, but I can confirm this morning that she is …’ he reached for the water, swallowed hard ‘… she was working for South Trust.’

There was an audible crackle of activity: phone keyboards being tapped; notepads being written on; and the collective and unmistakable murmur of journalists who have found their top line. A British citizen, a Goody Two Shoes activist, caught at the heart of a murder investigation in a foreign land. The press officer took the microphone again.

‘Mr Chetty will take a few questions but just a word of caution – I’m sure you’ll all understand that, for legal reasons, he may have to be more circumspect than … than … well, than you would want him to be.’ She pointed to the man from Today.

‘Mr Chetty, when you say this British citizen was working for South Trust, do you mean she was an employee? Is she still an employee and what is her name?’

‘Yes, she is a member of our staff and her name is Lindi Seaton.’