A 33-year-old customs clearing agent from Durban has been sentenced to eight years in prison for defrauding both the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and his clients of millions of rand.
George Vorster pleaded guilty to 17 counts of fraud committed between February and April 2018. Acting through his company, VRST International South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Vorster misled his clients—importers who trusted him to handle customs clearance and tax payments for goods brought into South Africa.
Clients paid him the full amount of customs duties and VAT owed for their goods. However, instead of paying the correct amount to SARS, Vorster under-declared the tax obligations and kept the difference for himself. As a result, SARS lost approximately R2.4 million, while the importers suffered a collective loss of about R2.3 million, having to cover the shortfall.
After investigations led by the Hawks and SARS, Vorster was brought to court. During sentencing, the prosecution emphasized how tax evasion damages society at large.
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In addition to the prison term, Vorster’s now-dormant company received a R200,000 fine, which was wholly suspended.
The case highlights the coordinated efforts of law enforcement and tax authorities in holding individuals accountable for financial crimes.