The Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court has postponed the case of Albert John, 83, to 4 February 2025. John, the director of A John T/A Albert Vervoer, faces 15 counts of violating Section 234(d) of the Tax Administration Act 28 of 2011 for failing to submit tax returns. The charges stem from his alleged failure to submit Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) and Value-Added Tax (VAT) returns between March 2012 and June 2024, despite repeated reminders from the South African Revenue Service (SARS).

John was notified by SARS of his non-compliance with tax submission requirements, with both telephonic reminders on 1 April 2022 and subsequent written notices. The delay in addressing his outstanding tax returns led to the criminal charges.

This case marks the third to be added to the court roll under the Honey Badger Project, a collaborative initiative between the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI/Hawks), and SARS. The project, which aims to enhance tax compliance, targets individuals and entities that evade their tax responsibilities. It seeks to ensure accountability by taking legal action against defaulters.

Dr. Rachel Makhari, the Director of Public Prosecutions for the North West, and Brigadier Silas Munzhedzi, Acting Head of the North West Hawks, commended the collaborative effort that led to the case being placed on the court roll. “We stand united in ensuring tax defaulters face justice through criminal prosecution,” said Dr. Makhari.

SARS Commissioner Mr. Edward Kieswetter highlighted the critical role that voluntary compliance plays in maintaining a fair and efficient tax system. “Taxpayers who deliberately engage in criminal non-compliance will face severe consequences,” he said.