Public Protector Lawrence Mushwana has decided not to refer sensitive information obtained from "an individual in the Eastern Cape" to the Hefer Commission of Inquiry.

In a statement yesterday he said his office had last week received, from this person, sensitive information relating to top government officials, private individuals and certain institutions.

At that time, it had appeared - subject to verification - that the bulk of the matter might best be dealt with by the Hefer Commission.

However, after further consultation between his office and the individual, it emerged the matter did not relate to the spy allegations against National Director of Public Prosecutions, Bulelani Ngcuka, now being investigated by the commission.

Therefore it would not be referred to the commission, headed by retired judge Joos Hefer.

"The individual consulted a psychiatrist on various occasions in the past, and claims to be under a great deal of stress at the moment," Mushwana said.

The psychiatrist concerned might have additional information relating to some of the issues, and also regarding "the state of health of this person".

"The circumstances thus strongly suggest that I access all the information and/or reports in the psychiatrist's possession concerning this person.

"This will enable me to determine how the matter should be dealt with," Mushwana said.

The individual's identity and whereabouts were being withheld for security reasons.

Last week, a spokesperson for Mushwana's office said the information had been divulged by "an individual in the Eastern Cape" who insisted on giving it only to the Public Protector directly.

She refused to divulge the content of the received information "due to the sensitive nature of the allegations". – Sapa.