On 17 March 2026, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) executed search and seizure and preservation orders against six current and former officials, as well as related traders, implicated in customs corruption and tax fraud. The operation uncovered more than R45 million in under-declared income and an estimated R18 million in lost tax revenue. This enforcement action forms part of the National Illicit Economy Disruption Programme, which aims to combat organised criminal activity within the tax and customs system and strengthen integrity in customs and tax administration.

SARS Implements National Illicit Economy Disruption Programme to Combat Corruption and Customs Fraud

Address illicit economy crimes, prioritised organised crime, including serious commercial crime and cybercrime through prevention, investigation, prosecution and conviction through the Integrated Organised Crime Plan

President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the National Prosecuting Authority Amendment Act, 2024 into law in June 2024, establishing the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption as a permanent entity within the National Prosecuting Authority. The new body has criminal investigative powers and dedicated investigators, prosecutors, forensic experts, and analysts to handle serious and complex corruption cases. The reform strengthens South Africa&rsquo;s anti-corruption architecture and enhances the criminal justice system&rsquo;s capacity to investigate, prosecute, recover assets, and protect institutional independence.

Signing of the NPA Amendment Act Establishing the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption

Finalise review and overhaul of South Africa’s anti-corruption architecture to strengthen the criminal justice value chain

The Special Investigating Unit recovered more than R2 billion in unallocated and improperly retained National Student Financial Aid Scheme funds from universities, TVET colleges, and unqualified beneficiaries. Of this amount, R1.7 billion was returned to NSFAS in January 2026 for reallocation to eligible students. The recoveries form part of the SIU&rsquo;s investigation into corruption and maladministration and demonstrate efforts to recover public funds lost through unlawful conduct.

SIU Recovers Over R2 Billion in NSFAS Funds

Increase in freezing and recovery of money assets that are the proceeds of unlawful conduct and crime

President Cyril Ramaphosa authorised the deployment of 2,200 members of the South African National Defence Force to work with the South African Police Service under Operation Prosper. The deployment, which runs from March 2026 to March 2027, targets illegal mining and gangsterism in the Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, North West, and Western Cape.&nbsp;

Authorisation of SANDF Deployment to Combat Organised Crime

Establish capable, sophisticated and independent law enforcement agencies that can fight complex and organised crime.

Pursue criminal charges against mayors and municipal managers for contravention of the National Water Act

The Standing Committee on the Auditor-General (AG) has welcomed the Office of the Auditor General (AGSA) 's recovery and prevention of R3.47 billion in financial losses&nbsp;through the Material Irregularities (MIs) process.

Fight corruption and prevent undue political interference in the administration of the state

Complete the implementation of a new centralised ownership model for SOEs. This will improve accountability, transparency, governance and oversight, while reducing inefficiency and the potential for corruption.

Citizens Watch

Promise

Promise History

SARS Implements National Illicit Economy Disruption Programme to Combat Corruption and Customs Fraud