Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has uncovered a suspected fraudulent tax collection scheme involving one of its staff members, with the employee set to face court over charges of impersonation, forgery, solicitation and obtaining money by false pretence.
The suspect, Isa Kakooza, a URA fleet assistant (driver), is accused of posing as a Domestic Taxes officer and using URA-related identification documents (ID) to target taxpayers.
According to investigations, Kakooza allegedly approached a taxpayer in Seeta while dressed in a URA uniform and carrying a photocopy of a URA identification card, before conducting an unofficial tax assessment of Shs80,000, which he allegedly demanded in cash.
The matter was uncovered after the taxpayer became suspicious and contacted URA through its whistleblowing toll-free line to verify whether such an assessment could be conducted without a Tax Identification Number (TIN).
URA Commissioner General John Musinguzi Rujoki said the incident highlights the importance of public cooperation in identifying and stopping fraudulent activities by individuals who misuse the Authority’s name.
“We commend the taxpayer for raising the alarm through our whistleblowing channels. Such vigilance is critical in helping us protect taxpayers and maintain the integrity of Uganda’s tax administration system,” Musinguzi said.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Kakooza may be linked to additional cases reported in Kayunga and Wakiso districts. In Kayunga, he is accused of obtaining money by false pretence from shop owners Duuku Jimmy and Yokujju Moses in Kitimbwa Town Council.
Another case involves allegations of impersonation and solicitation from victims in Nakabugo Parish, Nansana Municipality, including Nantongo Eva, Tushabe Aidah and Tindyebwa Geresi.
URA also said investigations are ongoing into a Seeta case involving allegations of impersonation, forgery and obtaining money by false pretences, with two victims already identified.
The Authority revealed that a vehicle saidnto have been used in one of the reported offences was intercepted by Customs Intelligence and is currently being held to support investigations. Musinguzi warned members of the public against dealing with individuals who claim they can influence tax processes or offer unofficial tax services.
“URA has a zero-tolerance approach to corruption and fraudulent conduct. We urge all taxpayers to use official channels for all tax-related transactions and report anyone demanding money outside established procedures,” he said.
Kakooza, who had reportedly been on the run before his arrest, remains in custody and is expected to appear before court on July 10, 2026, to answer the charges.
