It’s good news for the country as investigations by SARS into coal theft break R500-milion smuggling ring. Picture: File/Fotor.
SARS crackdown on coal smuggling syndicate amid Eskom crisis
SARS led a crackdown in five provinces to tackle a group including Eskom employees accused of coal smuggling that worsens the energy crisis.
It’s good news for the country as investigations by SARS into coal theft break R500-milion smuggling ring. Picture: File/Fotor.
South African Revenue services(SARS) led a crackdown in five provinces to tackle a group accused of coal smuggling that worsens the energy crisis.
The accused coal-smugglers and their linked groups reportedly operated in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, and Limpopo.
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They supposedly diverted quality coal.
SARS crackdown on coal smuggling that costs taxpayers over R500 M
“The suspects targeted include former Eskom employees who facilitated procurement fraud, as well as other individuals involved in the diversion of high-grade coal.”
These particular operations are expected to burden taxpayers with a cost exceeding R500 million.”
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Even though those handling organized crime are fulfilling their roles, Eskom’s management and government officials must maintain their attention on practical steps for lasting solutions.
The Good Party gives commendation on the effort made
The GOOD Party expressed appreciation for the recent crackdown SARS targeting an alleged sophisticated coal-smuggling syndicate.
ALSO READ:‘Highly organised criminal activity’: Eskom truck drivers arrested for coal theft
“Loadshedding has severely harmed lives and businesses in South Africa for a considerable time, while corrupt individuals drained Eskom’s resources.”
“While law enforcers tackle organized crime, Eskom managers and government officials must concentrate on practical actions for lasting solutions,” they said.
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This involves enhancing existing power stations and swiftly integrating more renewable energy into the grid.
Commissioner praises law enforcement
SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter praised the nation’s law enforcement for a significant advancement in their ongoing inquiries.
He stated that such blatant greed has caused unprecedented load-shedding, harming businesses, affecting foreign investments, and causing job losses, all of which adversely impact revenue collection.
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