The amount of a tax refund scam that was uncovered last year now stands at N$833 million.

The Namibian Revenue Agency (NamRA) says the network of tax evasion involves 1,168 taxpayers across 84 institutions.

In a media statement, NamRA reports that as of the 18th of July, the investigation had brought to light an astounding total amount of N$833 million, a staggering increase from the initial N$15 million reported in March last year and N$136 million in January.

The scam includes companies, government offices, ministries, agencies, and public institutions.

The Namibian Revenue Agency (NamRA) has donated forfeited goods worth more than N$100,000 to the Ministry of Education, Arts, and Culture.

Backpacks, caps, and soccer balls were among the items donated.

NamRA's Chief of Strategic Communications, Yarukeekuro Ndorokaze, reiterated that the items were not confiscated but forfeited.