URA impounds Kenyan wheat flour, rice from traders in Eastern Uganda

In response to ongoing smuggling reports in Eastern Uganda, the Mbale Uganda Revenue Authority enforcement team took action, shutting down several consolidation centers in Pallisa and Butebo.

Notable seizures include 50 cartons of wheat flour and 30 bags of rice from Kenya.

The operation extended to Mbale and Bukwo, revealing 23 Ling Long brand tires from China in Mbale and impounding an Isuzu truck with smuggled goods in Bukwo.

Despite attempts by the driver and turn-boy to escape, the URA towed the vehicle to their offices.

Further inspections uncovered additional contraband, including 185 cartons of golden wheat from Kenya, 54 cartons of Dunia wheat flour, and 30 bags of Mara rice made in Kenya. Godson Mwesigye, Manager Enforcement Operations, cautioned truck owners against involvement in smuggling, warning of forfeitures if caught.

Mwesigye explained the penalties for those persistently partaking in illicit trade, aiming to facilitate compliant taxpayers and ensure Customs collects its due revenue this financial year.