A South African Revenue Service (Sars) official faces corruption charges after allegedly asking for a R60 000 bribe to squash a fine.

According to Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale, the R342 000 fine was issued to a man who had a cargo container in City Deep, Johannesburg that allegedly did not comply with regulations.

"The compliance officer reportedly suggested that the fine could be reduced, provided that the complainant agreed to the terms and conditions. The pair agreed to a reduction of the fine for a gratification of R60 000. The complainant then went to report [it] to the Hawks' Serious Corruption Investigation team, following consistent pestering from the official," Mogale said.

A covert operation was carried out on Tuesday in Alberton, where the cash was supposed to be handed over.

An undercover agent handed over R40 000 cash to the Sars official and he was arrested. He was charged with corruption.

The 39-year-old official is expected to appear in the Commercial Crimes Court in Palm Ridge on Thursday.