Alleged VAT syndicate released on bail
Nine suspects believed to be part of a VAT syndicate have been released on bail after appearing in the Commercial Crime Court in Durban and Pretoria respectively.
The eight men and one woman were arrested in Gauteng and Kwazulu-Natal on Wednesday.
Hawks spokesperson Hangwani Mulaudzi says the suspects allegedly claimed the money through fraudulent VAT vendors.
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"The SARS investigation has revealed that the syndicate allegedly claimed R99million fraudulent refunds through 15 registered by fictitious VAT vendors. False VAT vendor details with fraudulent supporting documents were used to register the vendors."
The South African Revenue Service (Sars) paid out approximately R30,6 million before the scam was uncovered.
"The proceeds of the scam were deposited in bank accounts from where the money was allegedly laundered through at least 35 so-called suppliers, " says Mulaudzi.
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The Hawks also seized an AK47 and a pistol, R250 0000 in cash, several gold bars and millions in Kruger Rands.
The suspects are expected back in court on February 15.