The case between Internet Solutions (IS) and Verizon SA has been settled, following Verizon's return of more than 108 documents to the Dimension Data subsidiary.
The value of the settlement was not disclosed.
Last year, IS obtained an Anton Pillar search-and-seizure order against Verizon SA and an unnamed former employee, which allowed investigators to close down the offices for a day.
The order was based on evidence that Verizon was in possession of and was unlawfully using proprietary information belonging to IS, says the local Internet service provider.
"The search-and-seizure operation was conducted on 31 August 2006 and resulted in the discovery of in excess of 108 documents (both electronic and hard copy), many of which were IS-branded and were indisputably the exclusive property of IS."
Adds IS: "The documentation included confidential customer lists of IS, key intellectual property of IS, and other trade secrets and confidential information of IS."
Matter resolved
The case, which has been pending for almost 10 months, was settled yesterday, say the companies.
"[Yesterday] Verizon made a settlement offer to IS, in respect of which that it would pay for, among other things, all IS's legal costs to date. IS accepted such settlement offer, having obtained the said documentation, and is happy that the matter has now been finally resolved," says IS.
Meanwhile, Verizon says it conducted internal investigations "in line with its strict code of conduct and human resources policies" following the receipt of the complaint.
"Ethical behaviour and compliance with laws are fundamental to everything that Verizon Business does, and will continue to remain at the heart of the company's business activities in SA, and around the world," it says.
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