Alleged tax fraudster remanded in custody by Nelspruit court for R28m fraud
In order to verify the fraud accused’s more than 10 property addresses across four provinces, the state requested he be remanded in custody until June 3.
Sifiso Innocent Mabuza (39), who was sought by the Mbombela-based Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation Unit for fraud and contravention of the Tax Administration Act, handed himself over to the office of the Hawks in this city on May 30 through his lawyer.
This followed an investigation in relation to a fraud case that transpired during 2018 and 2021. During that time, Mabuza was the director of Shishila Rural Trading whereby he allegedly submitted fraudulent tax returns to SARS and prejudiced the receiver of revenue an amount of R28m.
The investigation team traced Mabuza down and he promised to hand himself over, which he never did.
The Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court issued a warrant for his arrest and the team utilised several tactics to assist in securing his appearance in court, including enlisting the assistance of the public.
During his appearance, the investigation and prosecution teams brought to the court’s attention that Mabuza has more than 10 properties in Mpumalanga, Gauteng, Durban and Limpopo registered under his name and all the addresses have to be verified before his attempt at a bail application. The matter was postponed until June 3.
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The provincial head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Maj Gen Zodwa Mokoena, applauded members of the media and public for making an effort to bring the accused before court after his denials.
Mokoena also applauded the investigation team and prosecution for standing their ground by persuading the court to remand him in custody.
Mokoena said without hesitation that there is no one above the law and that the Hawks will do their job without fear or favour.
