In a significant operation conducted by the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) enforcement team, Major Baguma Birungi, a high-ranking UPDF officer, finds himself in trouble over alleged involvement in smuggling contraband cigarettes. Three other individuals, identified as Luzinga Dickens, Kayuma Davis, and Aradukunda Hillary, all residents of Ssenge village in Naluvule Parish, Wakiso Sub-county, Wakiso district, were also apprehended.
The charges against the four individuals are related to the possession of prohibited goods, as per URA TID/GEF/09/2024.
The operation, carried out last week, led to the confiscation of 64 boxes of flavored Oris Platinum Double Apple Cigarettes at a residential house in Ssenge, Wakiso district, serving as their consolidation center.
Ibrahim Bbosa, the assistant commissioner for public and corporate affairs at URA, confirmed that the confiscated contraband cigarettes amounted to over 6400 sticks, with a tax value of approximately 140 million Shillings.
Additionally, the enforcement team impounded a Subaru Forester, a Toyota Hiace (Super Custom), and a Toyota Vitz that were utilized to smuggle the cigarettes.
To strengthen the case against the suspects, URA plans to use the impounded vehicles and the 10 million Shillings, which the suspects attempted to use as a bribe.
Bbosa emphasized URA’s commitment to combat smuggling, highlighting the agency’s proactive approach to apprehending culprits.
The involvement of a UPDF officer in contraband activities raises concerns about the integrity of individuals in authoritative positions. This incident underscores the ongoing challenge of smuggling in Uganda’s tax administration, leading to significant revenue losses for the country.
Despite these challenges, URA remains steadfast in employing various strategies and collaborating with local communities to curb illicit activities and protect the nation’s revenue.
