Illicit cigarettes to the value of R6-million have been confiscated from various Cape Town traders. During a raid, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Rapid Response Team, and SAPS seized 443 master cases each containing 50 cartons of various illicit cigarette brands.
SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter says the import of illicit cigarettes and other goods such as clothing, second-hand car parts, and medication among others destroys the local industry and contributes towards job losses.
Kieswetter adds that SARS has a mandate to facilitate legitimate trade and will ensure that those involved in such illegal activities pay the price for not complying with tax and excise legislation.
[Picture: SARS]
