In a coordinated operation, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) together with the South African Police Service (SAPS) – specifically the DPCI Serious Commercial Crime Investigations unit – seized a substantial quantity of alcohol that was diverted to Kempton Park. The operation, executed on 29 July 2026, targeted illicit distribution channels that circumvented tax obligations and posed health risks. Authorities confiscated the contraband, imposed appropriate penalties, and launched an investigation into the supply chain network involved. This enforcement action demonstrates SARS’s intensified focus on combating illegal trade, particularly in sectors susceptible to smuggling and tax evasion. The seizure also reinforces the agency’s commitment to protecting legitimate businesses from unfair competition and ensuring that all products entering the market comply with regulatory standards. Officials praised the collaborative effort between law enforcement and customs, highlighting its effectiveness in disrupting criminal enterprises and safeguarding revenue streams. The public was assured that further actions will be taken to address similar violations and to uphold the integrity of the country’s customs and excise systems.
https://www.sars.gov.za/latest-news/media-release-sars-seizes-alcohol-diverted-to-kempton-park/