Fraud Syndicate Sentenced to Jail for R100 Million Scam
Eight individuals, comprising a sophisticated syndicate, were handed jail time for defrauding the South African Revenue Service (SARS) of R100 million.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the syndicate’s operations were led by four key figures. Among them were Jeremiah Musiwacho Dube and Maxwell Ndlovu Mavudzi, both Zimbabwean nationals who deceitfully obtained South African citizenship. Boaz Chilala from Zambia, a central figure, managed to evade capture, while Sello Rathete played a pivotal role in the scheme.
The investigation brought to light a particularly audacious attempt by Mavudzi and Dube. They reportedly tried to bribe a senior SARS official with R150,000 to ensure the smooth processing and payout of one of their false claims.
Dube faced the harshest sentence, with the court imposing a staggering 65 years of imprisonment. His wife, involved in the illicit activities, received a 25-year sentence. Mavudzi, another key player, also received a 65-year term. Additionally, Dube’s girlfriend, Ramone, was sentenced to a decade behind bars.
The remaining co-conspirators, Rathete and Edward Shoniwa, were handed 15-year sentences each. Audrey Radebe and Bongani Mbonani, part of the syndicate, received shorter but substantial five-year terms.
The NPA’s investigations revealed that between 2009 and 2015, the syndicate orchestrated a VAT scam, systematically filing fraudulent claims for Value Added Tax refunds from SARS. This elaborate scheme not only defrauded the government of significant funds but also exposed vulnerabilities within financial systems that authorities are now working diligently to fortify.
The court’s firm stance sends a clear message that financial crimes of this magnitude will not go unpunished. It also underscores the importance of robust checks and balances within revenue agencies to thwart such elaborate schemes in the future. As South Africa continues its battle against financial fraud and corruption, this case stands as a stark reminder of the vigilance required to safeguard public funds.
“The syndicate kingpins defrauded SARS by submitting VAT returns to SARS alleging that entities which were registered in their names and in the names of their co-accused, had incurred VAT expenses by importing into the country and purchasing from the local suppliers,” said Gauteng NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane.
