State argues against bail for businessman Suliman Carrim

The state has opposed bail for businessman Suliman Carrim, citing his overseas assets, financial means, and previous conduct as reasons he could flee South Africa. Carrim appeared in the Musina magistrate's court on Monday, where the state presented its reasons for opposing his release. According to the state, Carrim's financial position and international connections increase the risk of him absconding.

The prosecution alleged that Carrim authorised two co-accused to take financed vehicles across the border to Malawi without obtaining permission from the banks. The state claimed that Carrim knew the vehicles required bank consent before being taken out of the country and that he used letters without bank approval. The arrangement involved fraudulent documentation intended to disguise the movement and ownership of the vehicles.

The state also questioned Carrim's claims of ill health, saying he had indicated that he was unable to attend a commission but had subsequently travelled abroad without informing law enforcement authorities. Additionally, the prosecution raised concerns about Carrim's previous failure to comply with conditions relating to his appearance before the commission. When Carrim was previously released on bail, he was required to make arrangements to continue his testimony within 48 hours, which was not met.

The prosecution relied on communication, including WhatsApp messages, between Carrim and one of his co-accused, Zakes Ibrahim. It questioned why Carrim had denied that Ibrahim was his employee when, according to the state, Carrim was responsible for paying Ibrahim's monthly rent. The state also alleged that both co-accused did not have work permits, despite allegedly being employed by Carrim.

The state further alleged that Carrim had failed to disclose several properties and companies in his bail application, including businesses in which he allegedly held directorships. Among the companies listed were AR Roof Islamic Foundation, Baku Ban Investments, and Tasmika Construction and Plant Iron. The prosecution also questioned the financial information that Carrim had provided about a Hyde Park property, which it said had been purchased for R30m and carried a bond of R22.5m.

The prosecution argued that Carrim's financial position was still being verified through financial institutions, including the SA Reserve Bank. It also raised concerns about his alleged business dealings with government departments in the North West, saying these formed part of another investigation. The state maintained that it had a strong case against all three accused and that releasing Carrim would not be in the interests of justice.

The state pointed to the seriousness of the charges, some of which carry minimum sentences of 15 years. Carrim's defence team told the court it had received the state's opposing affidavit at 9am on Monday and needed time to prepare a response. The court granted the request.

Key points

• The state opposes bail for Suliman Carrim due to risk of fleeing.
• Carrim's financial position and international connections increase risk of absconding.
• The state alleges Carrim's involvement in fraudulent activities and previous non-compliance with bail conditions.