SARS Targets 'Professional Enablers' that assist client with tax evasion

In a decisive move against organized corruption and tax evasion, the South African Revenue Service (SARS), led by Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, announced an intensified crackdown on banks and financial advisors implicated in facilitating illicit activities.

According to Moneyweb, SARS are targeting 'professional enablers,' as they potentially aid in money laundering and bribery, as evidenced by legal actions against Sasfin Holdings Ltd. amidst allegations tied to an international gold smuggling ring. This initiative is part of broader efforts to curb illicit capital flows, including combating the illicit tobacco trade, and marks a significant step in restoring SARS's integrity post-Zuma era. Kieswetter's reappointment ahead of the upcoming elections underscores the commitment to continuity and reform in South Africa's financial crime landscape.

For tax practitioners with high-risk clients, this development suggests an imperative for increased diligence. Practitioners should consider:

• Enhancing their due diligence processes to avoid inadvertent association with illicit activities.

• Staying abreast of regulatory changes and compliance requirements to safeguard against potential legal entanglements.

• Proactively cooperating with investigations and audits to demonstrate transparency and integrity.

This approach not only mitigates the risk of scrutiny from regulatory bodies like SARS but also reinforces the tax practitioner's reputation as a reliable and ethical advisor.