The trial of Achilleas Kallakis and Alexander Williams has been delayed for a second time.
Kallakis’ lawyer said his client was too ill to take to the stand today.
He told Southwark Crown Court: “He has problems resulting from new medication, and was up last night taking five sets of prescribed medication. He has had several bouts of vomiting and feels on the verge of vomiting now.”
The lawyer added that Kallakis was keen to press ahead with giving evidence, but that he was concerned his client would not be in the best position to do so.
However, the prosecution said: “The crown is concerned there may well be a degree of manipulation in this case.”
The judge has ignored the defence’s request to adjourn until tomorrow, and has called for Kallakis to take to the stand at 2pm, where he will have to give evidence unless his health deteriorates.
The trial has been blighted by delays and has already run over the three-month deadline originally anticipated for the case.
Kallakis and Williams are facing several charges of fraud against Allied Irish Banks and Bank of Scotland. Both men are pleading not guilty.
joanna.bourke@estatesgazette.com
