Rafiq Wagiet15 July 2024 | 17:59

Court rules SARS can use evidence gathered behind closed doors to pursue taxpayers

The ruling follows the Supreme Court of Appeal's decision to dismiss Christo Wiese and his associates' appeal in their R217 million tax dispute with SARS.

Court rules SARS can use evidence gathered behind closed doors to pursue taxpayers

Picture: Flickr.com

Motheo Khoaripe speaks to Pieter Faber, senior tax executive at SAICA.

Listen to the interview in the audio player below. 

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is determined to go after wealthy business people with complexed tax structures.

The revenue collector's latest win comes after the Supreme Court of Appeal's decision to dismiss Christo Wiese and his associates' appeal in their R217 million tax dispute with SARS.

SARS was able to convince the court that it can use information obtained behind closed doors to pursue taxpayers. 

Pieter Faber, senior tax executive at SAICA says this highlights the power of the tax agency.

"...I think this matter might still end up in the Constitutional Court. The principles underpinning this is something that the Constitutional Court might want to address because that is where the concern lies." - Pieter Faber, senior tax executive - SAICA

"Sars can claim an amount payable and due to them, and act as if a debt exists, even though no due process is followed, and that goes against the whole spirit of the Constitution."   - Pieter Faber, senior tax executive - SAICA

Scroll to the top to listen to the full interview.