The Anti-corruption Division made a decision to remand a pilot and two others over accusations of possessing prohibited goods and transporting prohibited items. The accused individuals are Paul Wanjala Mesho, a pilot, Kasirye Marvin Caleb, and Olof Abraham Don.
In a document obtained by this platform, it was outlined that Paul Wanjala Mesho and Kasirye Marvin Caleb were found with 24 cartons (50 packs of 200 sticks and 49 packs) of Oris cigarettes, valued at UGX 8,241,834. This possession is stated to be in violation of section 200(d)(1) of the East African Customs Management Act.
Additionally, the charge sheet mentions that Olof Abraham Don was involved in the conveyance of prohibited goods, which is contrary to section 199(b)(111) of the East Africa Community Customs Act, 2004.
All the accused individuals pleaded not guilty to the charges laid against them. As a result, they were remanded to Luzira Prison until the hearing of their case scheduled for Monday, the 8th of April 2024.
Baluku Ronald Masamba, Supervisor of Prosecution at URA, highlighted that the offenses carry penalties of fines amounting to up to 50% of the dutiable value. He emphasized URA’s commitment to combating smuggling activities aimed at protecting the health and safety of Ugandan citizens.
