The Madlanga Commission will subpoena hospitals and medical practitioners who have treated North West businessman Suleiman Carrim as it seeks to verify claims that ill health has prevented him from appearing before the inquiry.
Chief Evidence Leader Advocate Matthew Chaskalson announced the move after reports emerged that Carrim had recently been seen at a shopping centre in the Western Cape, where he was allegedly travelling with an entourage and having lunch.
Carrim has cited medical reasons, including an alleged heart attack, for his failure to testify before the commission. His application for a postponement is scheduled to be heard on Friday.
Chaskalson said the commission intends to subpoena the hospitals where Carrim reportedly received treatment, as well as his doctor in Cape Town, to establish the extent of his medical condition and determine whether it justifies his absence.
He said the commission expects Carrim's postponement application to provide a comprehensive account of his medical history and activities over the past four months.
According to Chaskalson, the application should detail the dates on which Carrim was admitted to hospital, attended medical consultations and travelled during the period.
The commission also wants information on whether Carrim attended any social engagements or remained involved in the management of his business interests while claiming to be medically unfit to appear.
Chaskalson said the commission would also seek clarity on who has been overseeing Carrim's businesses if he has been unable to manage them himself.
The commission is expected to consider the additional information when it hears Carrim's application for a postponement on Friday.