Jail, RO 500 penalty for tax evasion

MUSCAT: The Criminal Circuit of the Primary Court in the Wilayat of Al Seeb has issued a judgment in absentia convicting a defendant in a tax evasion case. The court found that the 'principal officer' deliberately refrained from submitting the mandatory tax returns as required under the Income Tax Law (Royal Decree No 28/2009) and its amendments. This ruling reaffirms the ongoing firm approach in enforcing tax legislation and safeguarding public funds.
The Court ruled to convict the defendant with one month of imprisonment and a penalty of RO 500. Additionally, the defendant shall pay RO 137,090 to the Tax Authority and is further held liable for all legal costs and court fees.
According to a spokesperson from the Tax Authority, the details of the case involve a 'principal officer' of a commercial establishment who intentionally abstained to file the tax returns required under the provisions of the Income Tax Law for the tax years (2020-2022). The total amount of tax evaded was RO 137,090.
After the completion of procedures, the case file was referred to the Public Prosecution at the Public Funds and Money Laundering Crimes Department. An investigation took place with the defendant, then he was referred to the competent court, which subsequently issued the conviction.
The Tax Authority urges all taxpayers to comply with the legal deadlines for filing returns and paying due taxes. It also reaffirms its commitment to pursuing legal action against violators and tracking non-compliance through reporting mechanisms, in order to ensure the safeguarding of public funds and the consolidation of the principles of tax justice.