Local leaders in Tororo District have accused Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) enforcement officers of brutality after an officer allegedly shot and killed a man suspected of smuggling goods into the country.
The victim, Simon Peter Odeu, a father of five, was reportedly shot dead while riding a motorcycle with two cartons of wheat flour from Kenya to restock his shop. This incident has sparked outrage among community members and leaders, who claim that URA officers are excessively aggressive in their enforcement tactics.
During a meeting with URA officials and transport sector stakeholders on income tax education, Tororo’s LC5 Chairperson, Mr. John Okeya, demanded action against what he termed as “brutal” URA officers. He emphasized the need for accountability and sensitivity in enforcement operations.
Similarly, Deputy Resident District Commissioner Mr. Albert Amula raised concerns about the lack of transparency in goods confiscation procedures, alleging that confiscated items are not properly documented, leading to suspicions of corruption within URA ranks.
In response, Mr. Robert Wamala, URA’s supervisor of tax education, asserted that the tax body does not condone such actions and assured that an investigation into the incident is underway. He emphasized the importance of adhering to a strict code of conduct and using intelligence-guided methods in enforcement operations.
Meanwhile, traders and manufacturers attribute the rise in smuggling to weak enforcement systems and price differentials between Uganda and neighboring countries. Cement, particularly Simba Cement Semu 4, is cited as a commonly smuggled item due to significant price disparities between Kenya and Uganda.
URA spokesperson Mr. Ibrahim Bbosa acknowledged efforts to curb smuggling activities, including the interception of smuggled cement and recruitment of informants. However, challenges persist, primarily due to unmonitored border routes and the lure of cheaper prices across borders.
