Businessman testifies he lent R10million to alleged crime boss for SAPS tender

Testimony reveals intricate connections and funding disputes in controversial contract

- RAPULA MOATSHE

NORTH West businessman Suliman Carrim’s testimony got off to a dramatic start at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry yesterday as his legal team clashed with commission secretary Dr Nolitha Vukuza over seating arrangements.

The tension was, however, defused after commission chair Justice Mbuy-iseli Madlanga intervened, prompting Carrim’s lawyer, Kameel Premhid, to apologise for his outburst.

Madlanga had earlier rejected Car-rim’s application to testify in-camera despite claims he had received death threats via phone messages.

Carrim faces accusations of using ANC connections to help alleged crime mastermind Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala to secure a R360-million tender with SAPS for his Medicare24 company.

Testifying before the commission, he said he provided R10 million in funding to Medicare24 after receiving a phone call from Matlala in June 2024 that led to a funding request.

“I know Vusi, as we both operate in the security sector,” he said, adding that before the call he never had prior engagement with Matlala.

Carrim said Matlala told him he had won a SAPS medical services contract but faced cash flow issues.