KZN SAPS has issued a warning to residents to safeguard their personal documents after a spike in fraud cases involving the South African Revenue Services (SARS). Lt Colonel, Thulani Zwane, of the provinicial police department said criminals were using personal information to file tax returns.

“It is alleged that victims received their IRIP5s and go to SARS offices to file their tax returns. However, on their arrivals, they are told that their tax returns were already submitted through e-filing and they cannot submit again.

“The victims were shocked and were not aware. A number of cases have been opened regarding this scam. We appeal to the community to make sure their personal documents are safe and secure,” he said

Zwane added Point Police Station in particular had seen a marked increase in cases. No arrests have been made.

In June this year, SARS issued a warning to small businesses of a new scam involving criminals pretending to be from the revenue service.