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Mpumalanga Woman Arrested in R293,000 SARS Fraud Case
A 37-year-old woman from Mpumalanga is set to appear in the Mbibane Magistrates Court on Wednesday following allegations of defrauding the South African Revenue Service (SARS) of over R293,000.
Four-Year Investigation Leads to Arrest
The suspect’s arrest on Tuesday comes after an intensive four-year investigation by the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation unit. Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi confirmed that she is the third suspect apprehended in connection with the fraud.
- Other Arrests:
- Daniel Maluleke (57): Arrested in August 2024 and released on R5,000 bail.
- Martha Mphahlele (43): Arrested in September 2024 and released on free bail.
Nkosi explained that the trio allegedly colluded in defrauding SARS by claiming a tax refund of R293,958.33, which was deposited into their individual bank accounts on various dates in 2015.
The fraud case was first reported in 2020, five years after the initial crime. Following its escalation to the Hawks, a rigorous investigation ensued, culminating in the arrests.
Major General Nico Gerber, head of the Hawks in Mpumalanga, praised the team’s efforts, stating:
“The successful investigation and arrests demonstrate our unwavering commitment to winning the war against financial crimes.”
Similar Fraud Cases
This case highlights broader concerns about financial crimes targeting SARS. In November 2024, IOL reported another major fraud attempt involving:
- Accused: Mmaseala Kekana, Richard Sekgantsha Makgasa, and their business entity Mmarekhu Retail and Suppliers CC.
- Allegations: They attempted to defraud SARS of R1.6 million by submitting falsified income tax returns during the 2013/2014 tax period.
- Legal Status: The case was brought before the Specialised Commercial Crime Court in Polokwane.
These cases underline the challenges SARS faces in combating fraudulent activities and ensuring compliance. The arrests serve as a warning to those engaging in financial misconduct that the authorities are vigilant and determined to hold perpetrators accountable.
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