The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry in Pretoria has confirmed that criminal charges have been laid against North West businessman Suliman Carrim following his failure to appear before the inquiry.
The charges were laid on 21 August on the instruction of Commission Chairperson Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga.
Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels confirmed the development while briefing the media following the testimony of KwaZulu-Natal Hawks Lieutenant-Colonel Deenadayalan Govender.
Michaels said Commission Secretary Nolitha Vukuza laid the charges on behalf of the commission after receiving instructions from Justice Madlanga.
“Justice Madlanga had instructed the secretary of the commission to lay criminal charges against Mr Suleyman Karim. And indeed, that has been done,” Michaels said.
He added that the matter had now been handed over to the commission’s Recommendations Task Team (CRTT) for further consideration.
Carrim’s failure to appear before the inquiry has been a matter of concern as the commission works to hear evidence relating to allegations of corruption, organised crime and political interference within South Africa’s criminal justice system.
The laying of criminal charges represents a significant escalation in the commission’s efforts to secure compliance from witnesses and other individuals required to participate in its proceedings.
The commission is continuing with its programme as it works towards completing its mandate and reporting on the allegations before it.