(Port Bell, Luzira) – The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) enforcement team intercepted smuggled goods worth over UGX 100 million aboard the MV Pamba at Port Bell in Luzira. This operation, which lasted 12 hours, was executed from September 9 to September 10, 2024, and highlights the importance of intelligence led efforts in customs enforcement.
The operation began when a URA informer provided crucial information regarding an incoming shipment of uncustomed goods from Nyanza. This timely tip off enabled Team One Enforcement to prepare for the arrival of the ferry from Tanzania. Customs officials boarded the vessel and, under the supervision of URA’s water marshals, redirected the MV Pamba to a designated docking area for inspection.
Upon arrival at the dock, officials discovered a large quantity of uncustomed goods, which were subsequently seized and transported to the Nakawa Headquarters for verification and further action. The confiscated items included a variety of products, ranging from motor vehicle spare parts to food, household items, and cosmetics. Specifically, the haul contained 15 cartons of motorcycle piston kits, valve sets, clutch pads, gasket sets, timing pads, and piston rings, alongside items like candy, chocolate, toothpaste, fishing lines, t-shirts for both children and adults, Ukwaju fruit juice, herbal soap, and rice. Among the cosmetics seized was Inecto super black hair dye.
The operation successfully led to the identification of nine consignments linked to nine suspected smugglers, all of which are now secured in the Customs warehouse.
