Dewani's lawyers had argued that he should not be forced from the UK to face trial until he recovers from mental health problems, including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

But in March, judges at the High Court in London rejected all his grounds for appeal against his removal from the UK and denied him the chance to take the case to the Supreme Court. 

It is expected that Dewani will be treated at Valkenberg hospital in South Africa while awaiting trial, where security has reportedly been beefed up in anticipation of his arrival. 

His initial assessment will be for 30 days but an agreement between British and South African authorities will see the businessman returned to the UK in 18 months if deemed unfit to stand trial.