The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has taken tough action today against six employees in Mmabatho for alleged theft and corruption amounting to about R10,5 million.
The six officials were arrested and suspended this morning following a year-long investigation by SARS on taxes received from taxpayers but not paid into the SARS bank account.
SARS obtained affidavits and sufficient evidence from relevant taxpayers confirming that such payments were made.
The investigation revealed that about R10 473 267,66 collected between October 2001 and May 2004 - and for which receipts were issued - was not duly deposited into the SARS account.
The investigation also confirmed that the six members of the Mmabatho office's cash hall division were involved in the alleged scheme.
Today's arrests are another victory over corruption and demonstrate SARS? unwavering commitment to the principles of utmost integrity, honesty and fairness in all its operations.
The arrests, conducted in conjunction with the South African Police Services (SAPS), also display a clear commitment of SARS? zero tolerance attitude against corruption.
For further media enquiries please contact SARS Spokesperson Sechaba Nkosi on (012) 422 5046 or 082 465 2901.
ISSUED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR THE SOUTH AFRICAN REVENUE SERVICE
PRETORIA