The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) successfully recovered smuggled goods from multiple locations in Kaserem, Kapchorwa in a dramatic showdown last weekend.
The appreciation of the Kenyan shilling against the Ugandan currency has rendered many smuggled goods unprofitable in the Ugandan market. However, for smugglers in Kapchorwa, the situation remains lucrative due to their stockpiles accumulated over months.
In Kaserem, URA received intelligence regarding traders hoarding significant quantities of wheat flour and cement. These illicit goods, comprising up to 500 cartons of wheat flour and over 400 bags of cement, were stashed in warehouses near town, awaiting buyers.
Acting swiftly on this information, URA’s enforcement team in Mbale coordinated with local police to launch an operation against the smugglers.
The first target yielded minimal results, with most of the contraband already removed. However, the team managed to intercept a motorcycle transporting the last remnants of wheat flour.
Undeterred, the enforcement team pressed on and successfully confiscated around 100 cartons of wheat flour from the second location. Tensions escalated as they approached the third site, prompting police intervention with tear gas to disperse unruly residents.
Despite the challenges, the operation yielded substantial results, with the recovery of contraband goods valued at over 8 million Ugandan shillings. Among the seized items were various brands of wheat flour, cement, and salt, all originating from Kenya. Additionally, a motorcycle used in the smuggling operation was impounded.
Kapchorwa, situated near Uganda’s border with Kenya, has emerged as a focal point for both legal and illicit trade. URA’s efforts in combating smuggling have intensified, with significant seizures reported in the Sebei sub-region throughout the current fiscal year.
Ibrahim Bbossa Kibuuka, Assistant Commissioner of Public and Corporate Affairs at URA, emphasized the authority’s commitment to combat smuggling in the region. Deploying a combination of technology and an extensive enforcement network, URA aims to thwart illicit activities effectively. Collaborative efforts with other agencies enhance information sharing and operational effectiveness in combating smuggling across borders.
