The Correctional Services department has confirmed that convicted fraudster Schabir Shaik has been released from jail on medical parole.

Shaik, the former financial adviser of ANC leader Jacob Zuma, was released following a meeting on Monday afternoon, spokesman Manelisi Wolela said.

"We have... been informed that the Correctional Supervision and Parole Board of the Durban Westville Management Area has decided to grant a 'medical parole' to offender Schabir Shaik following his re-appearance on Monday 2 March 2009," Wolela said in a statement issued on Tuesday morning.

"It should be noted that in terms of Section 75 (8) of the Correctional Services Act (Act 111 of 1998) the 'decision of the board is final' and can only be reviewed by the 'Correctional Supervision and Parole Review Board' led by a Judge.

"The department has requested a written report from the parole board to study and see if procedures have been followed appropriately in arriving at the decision."

Shaik was sentenced to 15 years in jail in 2005 on two counts of corruption and one of fraud.

Sapa