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Suliman Carrim granted bail in Pretoria over Madlanga Commission case

Published

The Pretoria Magistrates Court granted bail to Suliman Carrim, a former North West ANC regional secretary and businessman. Police arrested him at OR Tambo International Airport on his way to Dubai, and he is charged over failing to appear before the commission.

Carrim is charged with contravening the Commissions Act after he allegedly failed to appear before the commission despite a subpoena. The State opposed bail and argued that he is a flight risk. His defence said he is not a flight risk and meant to return after a religious pilgrimage.

Prosecutors said Carrim tried to board the flight with "voluminous luggage". They also accused him of raising ill health without good reason. His lawyers said the State cannot suggest he will evade trial without proof.

Carrim also faces separate charges in the Musina Magistrates Court. They include attempted theft of motor vehicles, fraud and uttering. Earlier reports said he must apply for bail in that case too.

Key facts

Who
Suliman Carrim (North West businessman charged with contravening the Commissions Act; accused…); Madlanga Commission (commission before which Carrim allegedly repeatedly failed to appear); Pretoria Magistrates' Court (court delivering judgment on bail application); Madlanga commission of inquiry (inquiry before which Carrim failed to appear)
What
North West businessman Suliman Carrim, charged with contravening the Commissions Act for repeatedly failing to appear before the Madlanga Commission, awaits a bail decision in the Pretoria Magistrates Court. He was arrested earlier in October at OR Tambo International Airport moments before boarding a flight to Dubai, and prosecutors oppose bail. He also faces a separate car-theft charge in the…
When
28 October 2026
Where
Pretoria, OR Tambo International Airport, Dubai
Status
Reported

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