Since its implementation two months ago, the National Credit Act (NCA) has already affected the sale of new vehicles, while furniture and other retailers are also beginning to feel the squeeze.

According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers' of South Africa (NAMSA), lower car sales are as a result of the cumulative effect of interest rates since the middle of 2006 and the stringent provisions governing the granting of credit.

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has warned taxpayers against applying for deductions for private household security as a form of protesting again crime.

According to a statement issued by SARS, the Income Tax Act does not allow for individuals to claim expenses for private household security from their taxable income for the last financial year.

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) issued a statement that thirteen people, including a SARS employee, were arrested on in connection with fraud and money laundering. The arrests formed part of a joint operation involving the Directorate of Special Operations (DSO).

"The suspects, arrested in the Free State and in Gauteng, 'stole' the identities of unemployed people and utilised them to commit tax fraud," said spokesperson Adrian Lackay, adding that the suspects were part of a syndicate. “We will take all necessary steps to act against anybody defrauding the fiscus and welcome the assistance of the Special Investigations Unit and the DSO," he said.