Illicit traders in Mpondwe, Kasese district, are counting losses after Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) officers cracked down on a string of sophisticated smuggling operations this November.
Authorities report seizing a wide array of goods, including Kitenge fabrics, undeclared cocoa, and contraband cosmetics, from smugglers attempting to bypass customs at the busy border town.
In a dramatic bust, URA officers intercepted a car ingeniously modified with a hidden compartment, concealing 10 jerrycans of cooking oil and two 25-kg bags of rice. The vehicle, bearing registration number UAG 116X, is now facing a USD 5,000 fine under customs regulations.
“We discovered these goods hidden inside a compartment designed to evade detection,” said a URA enforcement officer involved in the operation.
Gordon Mutungi, Supervisor of Enforcement in the Midwestern region, praised the intelligence-driven approach that allowed officers to outsmart smugglers who continually adapt their tactics.
Mutungi issued a stern warning to traders: “The risks of smuggling far outweigh any potential personal gains. Instead of shortcuts, come to our offices for assistance.”
Revenue recovery procedures are now underway as URA intensifies efforts to secure the nation’s borders and enforce customs laws.
