Police and the office of ANC deputy president Jacob Zuma were silent yesterday about reported plots to assassinate and poison him.

The Mail & Guardian reported that a sniper was offered R1 million to assassinate Zuma at a Durban rally in 2004, but he did not arrive as arranged.

However, it was feared this plot could still be carried out ahead of the ANC conference in December, when the party's presidential leadership race would be decided. Police teams were investigating.

It was also feared that killers planned to lace Zuma's clothing with poison when it was dry-cleaned after failed attempts to poison his food.

"No comment," said Director Sally de Beer, spokeswoman for National Police Commissioner Jackie Selebi in response to the claims. - Sapa

With acknowledgement to Sapa and Cape Argus.