DETERRENT TO THOSE WHO DON’T FILE TAX RETURNS, SAYS MAGISTRATE.

Friendly Taxis and Tours Limited failed to file its returns for 2014, following which the company was charged and taken to court.

Resident Magistrate Joji Boseiwaqa while delivering his sentencing said that the company was well aware of its non-compliance with filing its tax returns as required by the law.

It had received letters reminding it to comply or seek extension with Revenue and Customs but has failed to do so.

“Taxpayers who do not file returns and legal proceedings that are issued to bring them to justice should not expect any mercy from this court. “This sentence should be a deterrent to future offenders as the tax laws of this country are to be adhered to or they will face heavy fines,” Mr Boseiwaqa said. Revenue and Customs Chief Executive Officer Visvanath Das welcomed the judgement saying that those taxpayers who continue to beat the tax system will have to face the full brunt of the law.

Mr Das said: “This is another example, further to last week’s Judgement on 12 month’s imprisonment for nonlodgement of tax return. “We mean serious business here.”

Mr Das reiterated the importance of the public seeking assistance from Revenue and Customs if they are unsure of their tax obligations.

“We want to further enhance tax transparency and voluntary compliance thus creating a level playing field for all taxpayers.

“We are here to serve the public and Revenue & Customs is encouraging taxpayers who may be unsure of their tax status or obligations, to call or visit our nearest office or alternatively visit our website

www.frcs.org.fj for more information.” Source: Fiji Revenue and Customs Services