Masike Andrew Masike (71) and his company, Ipokeng Properties and Estate Agents CC, appeared in the Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 16 August 2024, facing charges of fraud and contravention of Tax Administration Act 28 of 2011.

The accused was served with a summons to appear before court by the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation on Thursday, 06 August 2024, following an investigation into alleged misrepresentation in value added tax (VAT) returns submitted to South African Revenue Service (SARS), amounting to over R4.6 million.

Investigation revealed that, between 2019 and 2021, Masike submitted tax returns to SARS on behalf of his company, Ipokeng Properties and Estate Agents CC. SARS reportedly paid the accused cumulative amount of R4.6 million based on his submissions. Reports indicate that the accused’s company was dormant during the periods when he submitted tax returns. Furthermore, he allegedly failed to submit source documents when requested by SARS.

The accused made a brief court appearance and was released on warning. His matter was postponed to 16 September 2024.

North West Hawks’ Head, Major General Patrick Mbotho and the Director of Public Prosecutions in North West, Dr Rachel Makhari have commended the prosecutor and investigator for working tirelessly to ensure that the accused is brought to book.

Source : South African Police Service