SOUTH AFRICAN REVENUE SERVICE
MEDIA RELEASE NUMBER 1 OF 2001

10 JANUARY 2001

SARS AND SAPS EFFECT R40M MANDRAX BUST

PRETORIA - Mandrax with a street value estimated between R30m and R40m was confiscated in Durban and five suspects were arrested tonight.

The operation, jointly undertaken by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Special Investigations division, the South African Police Services Headquarters and its Kwa Zulu-Natal division began on Friday last week.

The Mandrax tablets were hidden in teddy bears and were imported from abroad.

This follows intensive investigation supported by surveillance operations over the past five days. Further investigations are continuing.

"We wish to thank the South African Police Services and all the officers of both services involved in the operation for their co-operation. We are serious about combating drug trafficking and all perpetrators will be punished severely. Let this be a warning signal for the criminal element in our society," said Mr Pravin Gordhan, Commissioner for the South African Revenue Service.

The SARS' Special Investigation division focuses on the criminal investigation of tax and customs crimes. Recent successes include:

• R250m Mandrax bust last year;
• The Metcash investigations;
• The investigation into ACCORD technologies, which resulted in the arrest of one of its directors; and
• An industry-wide investigation into the importation of electronics goods late last year led to the closure of a number of import agencies involved in underpayment of duties.

ISSUED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR THE SOUTH AFRICAN REVENUE SERVICE
PRETORIA