Carrim, Msibi and a R168m tender: Ramaphosa orders SIU probe - IOL
Controversial North West businessman Suliman Carrim under fire after President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered the SIU to investigate his dealings with the provincial government.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has reportedly ordered a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) probe into multimillion-rand North West government tenders awarded to companies linked to controversial businessman Suliman Carrim.
This has initiated a new investigation into alleged improper conduct, financial flows, and potential state losses.
At the centre of the investigation is an R168 million contract awarded by the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management to a joint venture between Carrim's Transnat Coach Lines and Ziggy Investments.
The probe will also scrutinise the financial dealings between Carrim's joint venture and the late taxi boss Jotham “King Mswazi” Msibi, who died in January 2024.
Investigators will also examine the affairs of North West Transport Investment (NTI), the entity involved in awarding the tenders and now under business rescue.
The SIU has been authorised to investigate allegations of improper conduct and undue benefits involving Carrim or other parties.
Depending on the findings, the investigation could pave the way for attempts to recover or forfeit assets to the state.
The development adds to mounting scrutiny surrounding Carrim, who is facing criminal charges after repeatedly failing to appear before the Madlanga Commission, which is examining allegations of corruption in South Africa's criminal justice system.
Carrim had cited a heart attack and serious illness following a collapse at a gym.
However, the commission said whistleblower information and CCTV footage appeared to show him shopping and dining for extended periods in Cape Town.
The commission was seeking his evidence about alleged links to the alleged corruption accused Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala, who faces charges connected to an R360 million SAPS health tender.
It also questioned Carrim over allegedly undisclosed payments exceeding R2 million to a company linked to Matlala.
