The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) “Team One” successfully dismantled a significant phone smuggling operation in Bugoloobi in a recent operation named “Red Dawn” . The smuggling ring had ingeniously disguised high-end phone screens as phone guards to avoid detection and pay only a small portion of the required taxes.
The successful raid was the result of detailed intelligence reports and several weeks of surveillance. Team One managed to catch the smugglers by surprise at their consolidation center, which served as a hub for receiving and distributing the illicit phone screens. This operation deprived the government of a substantial amount of revenue.
During the raid, Team One seized a total of 8,768 phone screens from various brands, including iPhones, Samsung, Nokia, Tecno, and Infinix. The confiscated items were valued at USD 96,448 (UGX 366,502,400).
| Brand | Quantity | Value (USD) | Value (UGX) |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhones | – | – | – |
| Samsung | – | – | – |
| Nokia | – | – | – |
| Tecno | – | – | – |
| Infinix | – | – | – |
| Total | 8,768 | 96,448 | 366,502,400 |
Armstrong Turyakira, the Supervisor of URA Team One, highlighted the significance of this operation. “This operation is a testament to URA’s commitment to fighting tax evasion and smuggling,” Turyakira stated. “We will continue to work tirelessly to protect the country’s revenue and ensure fair trade practices.”
URA posted on X and stated it remains dedicated to combating smuggling and ensuring that all trade practices comply with the law and that this operation is one of many steps towards securing the country’s economic interests and promoting fairness in the market.
