Bafana Sindane, a prominent taxi operator in Mpumalanga, has received a formal notice from the South African Revenue Service (SARS) demanding R17 million in outstanding taxes, as reported by Sowetan on Thursday.
Sindane, who is also known as Oupa Jossiah Sindane and referred to as “King of the Sky”, was given this demand on Monday. According to sources, the sum concerns approximately 16 years of alleged non-compliance with tax regulations.
“He is busy with his auditors to deal with the matter,” revealed a source.
The tax issue came to light during Sindane’s appearance in the Delmas Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where he was alongside Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni, Mvimbi Daniel Masilela, and Philemon Msiza, all of whom are implicated in a case involving extortion and money laundering.
A prosecutor noted the SARS inquiry when questioned by the magistrate about pending matters. Sindane’s attorney, Menzi Simelane, contested this mention, asserting that the tax demand was unrelated to the criminal case and intended to “scandalise” his client.
Sindane and his co-defendants have been accused of extorting over R2 million from businessman Dr Tengane Thomas Ntuli, who is involved in projects related to the Moloto Road upgrade in Mpumalanga.
Evidence introduced at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has also raised concerns about Sindane’s possible connections to police officials and his access to police escorts. WhatsApp messages from his phone were submitted as evidence regarding the alleged extortion plot and his contacts.
Sindane has not yet issued a public statement concerning the R17 million tax notice. He and his co-accused deny the criminal charges and remain free on bail.
An additional report from eNCA suggests that a close associate of Sindane has received another tax notification estimated at R9 million.
It’s important to note that the tax demand and the criminal accusations are separate legal issues. The allegations against Sindane in the criminal proceedings have not yet been established in court.
