(Eastern Uganda) – Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has successfully intercepted 10,375 kilograms of rice and 6,000 kilograms of wheat within a single week in a crackdown on smuggling activities across Eastern Uganda. The operations targeted districts like Namayingo, Namayemba, Busitema, and Mbale, where smuggling is rampant due to porous borders and access to key entry ports.
Intelligence played a vital role in these operations. For instance, in Busitema, officials received a tip-off about a Ugandan-registered truck (UBL 482L/UBL088Q) supposedly carrying transit clinker to Rwanda. After close monitoring, the truck was intercepted, and inspection revealed 4,840 kilograms of Pakistani rice brands, including Hilal, Mahmood, Sana, and Baraf, hidden within the clinker.
In Namayingo District, two separate interceptions were made. On November 10, URA recovered 750 kilograms of Indus rice from a double-cabin truck with registration number UBB627J. Nine days later, on November 19, a truck (KCY237Q/ZE2410) traveling on the Busia-Jinja road was stopped for inspection, revealing 2,400 kilograms of assorted Pakistani rice. The vehicle also contained other contraband goods such as 13 bales of textile material, 7 bales of assorted garments, 4 rolls of curtain material, and 5 bales of used undergarments.
Namayemba also witnessed a significant seizure when enforcement teams uncovered 2,385 kilograms of Basmati rice concealed in two consolidation centers.
Rice smuggling in this region has become a persistent challenge due to the proximity of entry ports and the numerous unmanned border points in areas like Lwakhakha, Suam River, and other controlled zones. URA plans to expand its workforce and utilize advanced technology to combat the issue.
The Mbale enforcement team focused on a wheat smuggling network in the Sebei sub-region. A syndicate was tracked and an Isuzu Elf truck (UBG 568G) was intercepted carrying 6,000 kilograms of Kenyan-made Golden and Mother’s Choice wheat flour.
Table: Summary of Major Interceptions
| Location | Date | Goods Seized | Means of Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Busitema | November 20 | 4,840kg Pakistani rice | Ugandan truck (UBL 482L/UBL088Q) |
| Namayingo | November 10 | 750kg Indus rice | Double cabin truck (UBB627J) |
| Namayingo | November 19 | 2,400kg rice, textiles, garments, curtains | Truck (KCY237Q/ZE2410) |
| Namayemba | Undisclosed | 2,385kg Basmati rice | Consolidation centers |
| Mbale (Sebei region) | Undisclosed | 6,000kg wheat flour | Isuzu Elf (UBG 568G) |
Under the East African Community Customs Act of 2004, as amended, URA imposes fines of up to $5,000 on vehicles used for smuggling and has the authority to forfeit them.
URA’s leadership emphasized the agency’s commitment to curbing illicit trade, which undermines Uganda’s economy. The public has been urged to report suspicious activities to help level the trade field and support fair commerce.
