Ayres, together with Bulgarian Valeri Nikolov (41), faces a charge of drug possession following their arrest near the Middelburg Toll Plaza in November 2014.

They allegedly had in their possession roughly 600 000 ecstasy tablets believed to be worth R85 million and destined for Durban where Ayres co-owns Keys, a popular bar and night club.

Ayres was released on R1 million bail in December. He also had to give up two properties, collectively worth R10 million as surety that he will not flee the country.

Bail conditions includes that he report to the Berea police station daily and is not allowed to leave Durban without getting permission from the investigating officer.

His sole appearance follows the failed attempt at getting a bail hearing by Nikolov on Monday. No requisition was issued to have Nikolov brought to court from Correctional Services and a cable fault caused the Middelburg Court to be without electricity for hours. As a result no cases could be heard and Nikolov has to remain in custody until the next available date.

During Ayres’s appearance yesterday, a date was set for the two men to appear again in February. It is suspected that Nikolov will bring his bail application then.