Businessman and former ANC North West provincial treasurer Suliman Carrim has been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport after allegedly attempting to leave South Africa.
The 49-year-old was arrested on Thursday night by members of the Commission Recommendations Task Team (CRTT), according to reports.
Carrim is expected to appear before the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 16 October 2026, in connection with his alleged failure to appear before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
Madlanga Commission ordered criminal charges
The arrest follows the commission’s decision to pursue criminal charges against Carrim after he repeatedly failed to appear before the inquiry to give evidence.
In August, commission chairperson retired Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga directed that criminal charges be laid against the businessman, saying the commission had to protect the integrity of its proceedings.
Carrim had previously cited ill health as the reason for missing appearances. The commission had also directed him to undergo an independent medical assessment after his repeated absences.
The charges were subsequently laid on behalf of the commission and referred to the Commission Recommendations Task Team.
Businessman implicated in commission proceedings
Carrim has also featured prominently in the commission’s wider examination of alleged corruption and criminality within the criminal justice system.
He has been accused of accepting R2.5 million in connection with efforts to help criminally accused businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala obtain payments linked to a R360 million South African Police Service contract. These are allegations, not findings of guilt.
His arrest comes as the commission continues to examine allegations of corruption and political interference in the criminal justice system.
Carrim’s court appearance is expected to provide further clarity on the criminal case arising from his failure to appear before the inquiry.
The circumstances surrounding his alleged attempt to leave the country and whether he will seek bail remain to be established in court.
