(Kampala) – Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) enforcement officers in Namayingo recently impounded two vehicles carrying uncustomed rice, some of which was expired. The rice was seized as part of the ongoing fight against illegal imports and smuggling at Uganda’s borders.
The first vehicle, a double cabin truck with registration number UBB 627J, was intercepted on November 10, 2024. A second vehicle, a Toyota Corona with registration number UAH 945A, was seized the following morning. The operations were part of a larger effort by URA to combat the illegal smuggling of goods, particularly rice, which is often brought into Uganda through porous borders.
Wilson Tumwesigye, the Officer in Charge of URA enforcement in Namayingo, explained that the rice seized was among the most commonly smuggled goods into the country. “Rice is one of the common commodities that are smuggled into our country through the porous borders, and we are determined to curtail this smuggling,” he said.
According to Tumwesigye, the team had received intelligence regarding a double cabin truck being loaded with rice at a concealed location in Busia District. Acting quickly, the enforcement team closed off all possible escape routes and set up surveillance.
While monitoring the roads, a Toyota Corona, registered as UAH 945A, was spotted briefly passing through a trading center in Bukoli, Mayuge District. Tumwesigye described how the car appeared suddenly, then disappeared just as quickly. However, after waiting for about 30 minutes, the same car reappeared, turning off its headlights before driving into the authorities’ trap.
Upon inspection, URA officials discovered that 610 kilograms of Baraf rice was expired. In total, more than 1,350 kilograms of both Baraf and Indus rice were seized, along with the vehicles used for transporting the goods.
Recently, during a visit to Busia, URA Commissioner General John R. Musinguzi emphasized the importance of cracking down on smugglers and warned that harsh penalties would be imposed on individuals caught with smuggled goods. He urged customs staff to issue maximum fines for anyone found transporting contraband.
| Vehicle Type | Registration Number | Rice Seized (kgs) | Rice Type | Expired Rice (kgs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Double Cabin | UBB 627J | 1,350 | Baraf, Indus | 610 |
| Toyota Corona | UAH 945A | 1,350 | Baraf, Indus | 610 |
