URA Exposes Smuggling Network in Major Kampala Operation

In a recent operation, Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) officers uncovered a sophisticated smuggling network that had attempted to flood the market with illegal goods. The four-day covert operation in Kampala's central business district resulted in a substantial seizure of contraband, dealing a significant blow to the smugglers' illicit activities.

The items confiscated included 17,463 square meters of fabric, 660 kilograms of Kitenge material, 288 litres of body lotions, 698 litres of energy drinks, and Basmati rice.

Armstrong Turyakira, the operation's supervisor, revealed that the smugglers had employed various creative methods to hide their goods, including using a fake broken-down vehicle with registration number UBJ 118Z and concealing items in sacks of Irish potatoes.

Despite the cunning tactics used by the smugglers, URA's advanced intelligence capabilities rendered their efforts futile.

“Our team’s vigilance was key in ensuring the plans of the smugglers were foiled to ensure Uganda’s economy is secure,” said Turyakira.

As part of URA’s ongoing anti-smuggling efforts nationwide, similar rackets have been dismantled to protect society from harmful products and promote fair competition.

“Goods smuggled into the country do not pay taxes and are sold cheaper than those that do,” Turyakira emphasized, highlighting the economic cost of smuggling.

URA urges the public to report any suspicious trade practices in their communities, a crucial step in ensuring a level playing field for all legitimate traders.