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ARTICLE · 13 NOVEMBER 2025

Dawn Raids: When The Competition Commission Comes Knocking

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It has been more than three years since the Competition Commission's ("Commission") last large-scale dawn raid, when it executed search-and-seizure operations at eight insurance firms across South Africa.

South AfricaAntitrust/Competition Law
Mia De Jager
Mia De Jager
Cara van der Westhuizen
Cara van der Westhuizen
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It has been more than three years since the Competition Commission's (“Commission”) last large-scale dawn raid, when it executed search-and-seizure operations at eight insurance firms across South Africa. That raid was a stark reminder that all businesses must ensure robust compliance with the Competition Act. Understanding the procedure, the Commission's powers, and your rights when investigators knock on your door is essential for businesses across all sectors.

What is a dawn raid?

A dawn raid is an unannounced on-site inspection by the Commission to gather evidence of suspected prohibited practices, such as pricefixing, market allocation and collusive tendering. Inspectors may enter identified premises, search for and secure information, and copy or seize physical and electronic records. They may also conduct brief factual interviews with employees, and coordinate simultaneous inspections at multiple sites, including private residences where business records or

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