Madlanga Commission offers protection to businessman Carrim

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has offered protection to controversial businessman Suliman Carrim, who said he fears for his life.

On Friday, the commission heard Carrim’s application to testify behind closed doors.

Carrim said he has been receiving death threats from unknown numbers, warning him not to testify at the commission.

Carrim is scheduled to testify next Monday and Tuesday on claims he meddled with police work and received kickbacks on an in irregular South African Police Service (SAPS) tender awarded to suspected crime boss Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.

Evidence leader Adila Hassim is opposing Carrim’s application to testify behind closed doors.

Hassim said it’s been public knowledge for some time now that Carrim would be testifying at the commission.

She said there is nothing in Carrim’s written statement that could potentially pose a risk to his life.

“I have been advised by the commission’s head of security that the commission has previously offered the witness protection services. I understand he declined the offer, as they already had arrangements in place. The offer, however, remains and I would go far to suggest, in light of the threats received, the commission can protect the witness in other ways, not through an in-camera application.”

A decision on Carrim’s application will be made on Monday morning.