The SA Revenue Service (Sars) is in the process of re-establishing a dedicated unit to focus on the illicit economy, which it says has a huge effect and is a real threat to the economy. Sars’s previous unit — the so-called “rogue unit” — was controversial and provided former Sars commissioner Tom Moyane with a weapon to pursue his opponents, including former finance minister Pravin Gordhan and former top Sars executives. Commenting on the move to establish a unit on the illicit economy, DA finance spokesman David Maynier said: “We do not want another Sars ‘rogue unit’ scandal and for that reason it is imperative to ensure that the illicit economy unit is established as a law enforcement unit, rather than an intelligence unit, and that its powers and functions are clearly set out in law, by Sars.” The illicit economy ranges from the underground economy, which operates outside of the rules and regulations of the country, to organised crime. A well cited example of the illicit economy ...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.