Suspicious inflated "Tax & Duties" with no proof provided.

I just cannot understand how this so-called courier company is getting away with their actions. Why has SARS and the policing authorities not yet investigated them??

I recently bought a low-value hobby modelling item (R86.00) from AliExpress and opted to have it imported via Standard Shipping (via SAPO)

However, AliExpress regrettably involved and appointed this courier company called Speedaf.

Speedaf demanded payment of R78.85 (91% of value) and labelled it as “tax & duties” - BUT based on the item type and value, import duty should be 0%, with only minimal VAT applicable. Not taxed at 91% of item value.

I repeatedly requested proof of these charges, specifically the SARS customs document and the commercial invoice used for the calculation. Despite multiple emails, Speedaf did not provide any documentation, explanation, or breakdown of the amount demanded.

Instead, Payment was demanded repeatedly by Speedaf by daily emails and whatsapps, but all requests for official SARS proof were ignored. Also rude messages was posted on the tracing system saying “buyer refuse to pay customs tax” which was a lie as I never did refuse, I did however ask for proof of charges which was denied by Speedaf.

Without documentation, the charges could not be verified and appeared to be courier fees misrepresented as government taxes.

The lack of transparency, refusal to provide proof, and misleading description of charges resulted in a loss of trust and an unresolved dispute.

I did not and will not pay this "tax & duties" without proof on SARS documentation.

Bizarrely I had a very similar experience with Temu and Buffalo Couriers in early 2024 - same story, inflated "tax & duties" but ZERO proof give.

As result, the item is been returned to the seller - but I am sorry, I will not fund dishonesty. Fortuity I paid via paypal and they agreed with me and refunded my money.

I will never deal with Seedaf again and doubt that I will buy from AliExpress again.

Bizarrely I had a very similar experience with Temu and Buffalo Couriers in early 2024 - same story, inflated "tax & duties" but ZERO proof give – it seems that this is “a thing” with these unknown courier companies?