(Tororo) -The Malaba URA enforcement team thwarted an attempt to smuggle cigarettes into the country in a successful crackdown on illicit trade. The operation, codenamed “Smoke Screen,” was launched after a tip-off from a newly recruited informant who alerted authorities about a suspicious vehicle, UBN 672Y, reportedly involved in smuggling activities.
Acting on the information, the enforcement team quickly moved to intercept the vehicle before it could evade their watch. The driver, known for repeatedly slipping past law enforcement by blending in with the crowd in smart attire, was taken by surprise this time. A brief chase unfolded through the streets of Tororo town, culminating in the driver’s arrest behind the Central Police Station in Tororo.
Upon searching the vehicle, authorities discovered a large quantity of contraband: 1,721 bombas, 10 packets, and 20 sticks of Supermatch cigarettes. Both the driver and the illicit goods were immediately taken into custody and transported to Kampala for further investigation and prosecution.
This operation highlights the relentless efforts of the Malaba enforcement team in combating cigarette smuggling. Their reliance on real-time intelligence and swift, decisive actions dealt a significant blow to the smuggling syndicate involved. Authorities, including the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), have reiterated their commitment to clamping down on such illegal activities and have encouraged the public to stay alert and report any suspicious behavior.
URA said the Malaba team’s victory against this smuggling attempt is part of broader efforts to protect the economy from the harmful effects of illegal trade and repeated that cigarette smuggling not only deprives the government of much-needed revenue but also undermines local businesses that follow the law.
