“The companies were awarded tenders for decontamination and deep cleansing of schools by the Gauteng department of education. Another company was awarded a tender by the KwaZulu-Natal department of social development for provision of hygiene equipment and consumables,” said Sars.
The companies were convicted and sentenced in the Durban district court last week. The sentences range from five months to 10 months' imprisonment (with the option of a fine). The cases follow similar convictions in Gauteng and the Free State.
Sars commissioner Edward Kieswetter said it seemed some companies were operating outside the law, seeking to profit from a devastating pandemic that had affected the lives and livelihoods of millions of South Africans, especially the poor and vulnerable.
“Sadly, most of the looted funds are being used to finance lavish lifestyles,” he said.
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