Members of SARS and the SAPS confiscated around R10m of bitcoin mining equipment and alcohol valued at R3.8m during a raid at an unauthorised warehouse in the North West.

The warehouse was used to illegally connect the cryptocurrency mining equipment to the town’s electrical power supply.

It was also used to manufacture 14 617 bottles of duty-free liquor and popular local brands.

The warehouse was well equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to enable those involved to carry out their criminal activities. One foreign national was arrested. An investigation is underway, and more arrests are expected.

SARS commissioner Edward Kieswetter praised the ongoing co-operation between SARS and the SAPS in apprehending those who are bent on perpetrating criminality.

He says the raid formed part of SARS’ decision to act more vigilantly against unregistered taxpayers conducting business and to protect legitimate businesses.

“The abuse of duty-free labels to circumvent payable duties and other criminal undertakings found at this warehouse undermines our economy and will be confronted and met with the full might of the law,” he adds.