Sars takes decisive action against tax defaulters

THE South African Revenue Services' (Sars) provisional sequestration of Roy Muleya, sole director of a company with a tax liability of about R155 million, underscores the serious consequences of tax noncompliance, as confirmed by the North Gauteng High Court on 29 October 2025.

- JASHWIN BAIJOO

This most recent notch in Sars' belt clearly evidences the revenue authority's far-reaching powers and zero tolerance for noncompliance.

To commemorate this win, Sars commissioner Edward Kieswetter commented: "Where taxpayers opt to wilfully disregard their obligations by acting outside the remit of the law, Sars will make it hard and costly.

Sars will continue to act lawfully and decisively against those who deliberately seek to evade or neglect their tax responsibilities. The message we want to communicate is that no matter how long it takes, Sars will not abdicate its responsibility to enforce the law."

Sars' compliance crusade - key collection driver

In Muleya's case, the legal action taken by Sars, places an individual's estate under external administration due to insolvency or unpaid debts, particularly related to tax liabilities. Such measures indicate a rigorous approach to financial management, aiming to protect state revenue while targeting defaulters without hesitation.

The objective of making noncompliance hard and costly has shown a clear positive impact on Sars' tax debt collections.