ANC-linked businessman Suleiman Carrim appeared before the Madlanga Commission on 9 March, admitting connections to alleged crime figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala and tender tycoon Hangwani Maumela. The commission dismissed his bid to testify privately amid threats. Carrim detailed financial dealings tied to government contracts and tenders.
Suleiman Carrim, a longstanding ANC member and activist in North West, testified publicly at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry on Monday, 9 March, after the commission rejected his application to give evidence in camera. Carrim had claimed threats from unknown individuals, but his prior public appearances and a failed High Court bid weakened his case.
Carrim described his involvement with Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, whose company Medicare24 secured a R360-million health services contract with the South African Police Service (SAPS). In June 2024, Matlala, facing cash shortages, approached Carrim, who operates Fusion Tactical Team in the private security sector. After verification through North West businessman Brown Mogotsi, Carrim advanced R10-million, expecting repayment of R20-million over three years. Matlala repaid only R2.5-million before the SAPS contract was cancelled.
To recover funds, Mogotsi suggested Carrim claim a close relationship with Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, despite none existing. Carrim told the commission he believed both Mogotsi and Matlala were “playing” him. Matlala faces criminal charges including attempted murder and conspiracy.
Carrim also detailed dealings with Hangwani Maumela, targeted by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) for his role in the R2-billion Tembisa Hospital looting, where whistleblower Babita Deokaran was killed. In mid-March 2025, Matlala requested Carrim pay R750,000 to Maumela; Carrim agreed to R500,000 to maintain cooperation on the loan repayment.
Additionally, in 2023, Carrim and Maumela discussed a mining venture, Chrome Core, with each holding 50% and contributing R55-million total. Maumela deposited the funds but later requested a refund for house construction, which was returned. Carrim said he learned of Maumela's March 2024 South African Revenue Service preservation order only in 2025.
Evidence leader Matthew Chaskalson, SC, questioned Carrim on these ties, linked to broader syndicate allegations involving Tembisa Hospital's over R800-million looting. Matlala reportedly met former Police Minister Bheki Cele at Maumela’s Zimbali Estate villa in March 2025. Carrim’s cross-examination continued on Tuesday.
