URA Intensifies Anti-Smuggling Operations, Intercepts Kitenge Convoy in Kampala

The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has stepped up anti-smuggling operations across the country, intercepting a convoy transporting uncustomed textiles into Kampala.

On February 9, 2026, a Customs Enforcement Team in the Central Region foiled an attempt to dump illegal kitenge fabrics onto the Ugandan market following actionable intelligence received by Team One Enforcement. The intelligence indicated that a mini-convoy of two vehicles—a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (Reg. No. UA 313BH) and a Toyota Harrier (Reg. No. UA 846DD)—was ferrying the smuggled goods into the city centre.

The two vehicles were trailed and later cornered shortly after entering Kampala. According to URA officials, the suspects attempted to evade interception by hiding in the Cooper Complex parking lot, but enforcement officers swiftly moved in and impounded both vehicles. The occupants were arrested and transported, together with the vehicles, to URA headquarters in Nakawa for further case management.

Alex Murungi, a DT Enforcement Officer, said smugglers are becoming increasingly creative, frequently changing routes and disguising cargo, but added that enforcement teams remain vigilant.

“Once in the city centre, the mini-convoy tried to lay low, but our team stayed on their trail. Team One swung into action and intercepted them,” Murungi said.

Upon verification, the Prado was found carrying 1,976.4 square metres of uncustomed cotton printed kitenge, while the Harrier contained 4,611.6 square metres of the same fabric. The total value of the intercepted goods, including taxes and penalties, is estimated at Shs 50 million.

URA Commissioner General John R. Musinguzi said smuggling undermines compliant taxpayers by creating unfair competition and pledged that the Authority will continue to make non-compliance costly.

“Smuggling brings unnecessary competition against genuine taxpayers. We will make non-compliance very costly so as to protect those who play by the rules,” Musinguzi said. “We must safeguard the interests of compliant taxpayers while mobilising sufficient revenue to fund the national budget.”

URA employs a multi-faceted approach to combat smuggling, combining enhanced enforcement with modern technology and inter-agency cooperation. Key initiatives target porous land borders and major water bodies, and Entebbe Airport, which are primary conduits for illicit trade.